Alex McLeish

Thu 31 March 2022 8:17, UK

Alex McLeish has suggested Liverpool could sign Jordan Henderson’s long-term replacement after making contact over a potential Jude Bellingham mega-deal.

The former Scotland manager, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the Reds are looking for “longevity” as they consider a move for the 18-year-old.

A German source told Football Insider on Wednesday (31 March) that Liverpool are among the clubs who have been in touch with Borussia Dortmund over a potential deal for Bellingham.

That has driven Dortmund to open contract talks with the teenage midfielder, despite his current terms running until 2025.

German publication Bild (29 March) claim the German giants are seeking in excess of £85million (€100million) for Bellingham’s exit.

McLeish suggested the youngster could step into Henderson’s boots at Anfield.

“If you’re spending that money on a player, you shouldn’t have any worries about him coming in,” McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.

“He should know absolutely what he’s doing on the pitch, there’s no inconsistency. It’s just almost like a robot going out there and doing everything that the manager wants.

“But also bringing his own identity and tricks to the team. That’s a surefire situation.

“Would you say he’s the same style as Jordan (Henderson), his stature? Yeah. Certainly, when they’re paying that sort of money, they’re looking for longevity.

“They’re not looking for a guy that after a year that he’s failed and they have to cut their losses and sell him. Liverpool are very good at knowing their onions.

“They have a good track record of signing some tremendous players over the last few years. For the first two or three years, there were some doubts for Klopp.

“He had to play midfielders at centre back, he didn’t have Van Dijk, he didn’t have the goalkeeper yet. mandate yet. Three years or so into it, it all came together.”

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