Liverpool have been told that they “need” to sign Jude Bellingham in order to avoid using Trent Alexander-Arnold in an unfamiliar role.
The Reds continue to be linked with the Borussia Dortmund midfielder. Reports this past week have suggested that the Bundesliga club have placed a £103million asking price on Bellingham.
Despite having plenty of admirers within the Anfield hierarchy, a move for the 19-year-old, or any new midfielder, is not likely to happen until 2023. Liverpool are content with their transfer business this summer, after bringing in Darwin Nunez, Fabio Carvalho and Calvin Ramsay.
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But despite that, it is unlikely that right-back Alexander-Arnold will be deployed further up the pitch. He has been utilised in midfield by England under Gareth Southgate. But it’s a tactic that Jurgen Klopp himself even questioned last season.
Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor agrees with Klopp and added that Liverpool must go out and sign Bellingham, either this summer or next.
“Yes, he has the attributes, the passing but there is still more that is needed in midfield. The running with the ball, the tight spaces that he’s probably not used to as much at right-back," Agbonlahor told Football Insider about Alexander-Arnold potentially playing in midfield.
“I think it’s a lot to ask for him to fill that role. Other teams are having to strengthen that area and Liverpool have to. It hasn’t worked with Naby Keita and I don’t think Alexander-Arnold is the right option.
“I think they need to go and get (Jude) Bellingham, I know it will be difficult to do that this year but if that’s the player they want I can understand them waiting a year.
“Liverpool won’t go and waste money on a panic signing. Keita was £50million and it hasn’t worked. He’s not the answer, he doesn’t get enough goals or enough assists.
“If Liverpool are going to solve that midfield role then they are going to have to look at Bellingham. If he’s not available this season then wait another season because I don’t think Alexander-Arnold is the answer.”
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