Last summer marked a complete overhaul of Klopp’s midfield, with the additions of Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo, and Ryan Gravenberch solidifying its transformation.
The shift in Liverpool’s midfield from the previous season to now is stark; what was once their major weakness in 2022/23 now stands as arguably their greatest asset.
However, the midfield might see further changes in 2024, especially with the anticipated departure of Thiago on a free transfer.
Thiago’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and due to an ongoing injury sidelining him for the term, an extension seems unlikely.
Liverpool is keeping an eye on several potential recruits, among them Genoa midfielder Morten Frendrup.
As reported by Liverpool Echo’s Paul Gorst, scouts will continue evaluating the 22-year-old’s progress this season.
Frendrup arrived at Genoa from Brondby in 2022 and has impressed observers with his vigor, determination, and adaptability—earning recognition from Serie A’s official channels as the league’s “premier ball-winner.”
According to FBref, he ranks in the 99th percentile for tackles among Europe’s top five leagues in the past year, averaging four per 90, yet falls in the 11th percentile for attempted passes.
His versatility spans various midfield roles as well as right-back and left-back, though he’s primarily utilized as a box-to-box midfielder in Italy.
Gorst suggests that securing a deal in January seems improbable, and intriguingly, “his non-homegrown status is currently seen as a limitation.”
Liverpool’s Premier League squad this season includes six homegrown players and only 22 senior players in total.
Despite featuring Vitezslav Jaros and Paul Glatzel in the homegrown roster, both academy talents are likely to depart by season-end, reducing the homegrown contingent.
Though Fabio Carvalho, Tyler Morton, Owen Beck, and Marcelo Pitaluga will qualify as homegrown players next season, there’s uncertainty regarding their stay and registration.
The club’s recruitment team might prioritize homegrown-eligible talent, potentially influencing a hesitance to pursue Frendrup.
Nevertheless, the Danish international remains an intriguing prospect and one to keep an eye on as the summer transfer window approaches.
Liverpool performance and stats
Liverpool
Liverpool is currently 1st in the Premier League with 45 points.
In the last 20 games, it has won 13 times, drawn 6 times, and lost once. In its last match, Liverpool won 4-2 against Newcastle United.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 43 goals and conceding 18.
Liverpool will play the next match in Premier League against AFC Bournemouth on Saturday 13th of January in Bournemouth.
