Liverpool told to sign Joel Matip replacement after journalist’s ‘break the bank’ reveal – ‘I’m sure Klopp wants him’, says pundit
Noel Whelan has claimed Liverpool need to freshen up their centre-back options as ageing star Joel Matip comes to the end of his Anfield contract.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested sought-after RB Leipzig star Josko Gvardiol, 20, could be a potential target after his impressive World Cup campaign.
Matip, 31, who has been limited to just four Premier League appearances this season after injury, is out of contract at Liverpool in June 2024.
Meanwhile, Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla has claimed (14 December) Man City are considering “breaking the bank” with a €130million (£113million) bid for Gvardiol.
Gvardiol has been one of the standout defenders at the World Cup in Qatar, helping his side reach the semi-final with his displays alongside former Reds ace Dejan Lovren.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “Matip has always done a job when he is fit, but they’ll be thinking about potential injuries as he gets older.
“Fabinho can go in there – but do you really want to do that? I don’t think they’ve got enough cover.
“January is a difficult window, but I’m sure they’ll be keeping tabs on a lot of players.
“This is something that the board will be looking at. The midfield has been spoken about a lot, but centre-back is another area they could do with freshening up and getting some younger players in.
“Josko Gvardiol could be someone who has caught the eye for Jurgen Klopp. He’s shown he can handle the pressure of a World Cup.
“I’m sure it won’t be just Man City who are after him.”
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