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Liverpool plot move for sensational midfielder who rejected Man United
Liverpool have plans to sign wantaway La Liga midfielder in January
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| Klopp in a press conference ahead of Ajax visit: Klopp ready to land former Ajax star De Jong |
The Reds are reportedly preparing a January swoop for Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong who's in the radar of Chelsea Manchester United.
The need for a quality midfield player has been a priority for Liverpool since the summer transfer window.
Calls for a reinforcement in the midfield led to the emergency signing of Arthur Melo who is now on the sidelines with a muscle injury.
Jurgen Klopp's side have struggled since the start of the season, however there's a possibility that they can still mount a title challenge in all competitions, and that would depend on the improvement of their team performances.
The right business in the January market can put them back on track as the undisputed title contenders in the past five seasons alongside Manchester City.
The ESPN have reported that they have a plan on table to land wantaway Barcelona midfielder Frenkie De Jong in three months time.
Despite the Reds continued to be linked with Jude Bellingham , who apparently won't be leaving Dortmund until next summer, they see an advantage in signing De Jong in January to strengthen their squad for the second half of the season.
Jurgen Klopp hints exceptional talent would replace Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota
Both Liverpool forwards are currently on sidelines with injures
Jurgen Klopp has few alternatives left for playing on the left wing after injuries to Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota. However, he may have found a solution.
Liverpool’s midfield injury crisis is gradually being resolved with Arthur Melo the only one of Jurgen Klopp’s 10 senior midfielders currently unavailable for training. However recent losses of Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota exacerbated their current woes.
After Darwin Nunez, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah, the only other senior attacking options available to Klopp are Harvey Elliott and Fabio Carvalho. Alternatives are now close to exhausted if any more injuries occur among the options currently available.
Fabio Carvalho who has only six Premier League starts under his belt is the only deemed fit left-flanker available to Jurgen Klopp at this point.
But the Liverpool manager has just hinted at the possibility of using Curtis Jones as a replacement to fill in the divested position.
“It’s perfect to have him back,” Klopp said at his pre-match press conference ahead of playing Nottingham Forest. "He’s an exceptional player, an exceptional talent. In whichever system we can play, he can play different positions which is very helpful.
“We just brought him in after a long time without playing regularly. You could see there was still space for improvement but that’s normal. It’s perfect having him back and, hopefully from now, having him back will be very helpful for us.”
Ajax star says a Liverpool player is his ' role mode'
Liverpool travel to Amsterdam to face Ajax in the second leg of their group ties next week
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| Mohammed celebrates after scoring a stunner against Liverpool in the Champions League |
Ajax striker Mohamed Kudus has expressed his admiration for Thiago Alcantara and insists his game is based on the Liverpool midfielder.
The 22-year-old has been linked with the likes of a summer move to Everton and has since surged in value after a stellar start to the season, scoring nine goals in all competitions.
One of Kudus's finest performances of the season came at Anfield after the Ghanaian scored in his side's Champions League group defeat to Liverpool with a powerful shot past Alisson top of the net, which Jurgen Klopp himself described as 'excellent'.
Kudus explained to Ajax TV why he likes Thiago Alcantara: "I loved his game as a child. I like creativity and having fun playing. When I played in Denmark, a friend of mine arranged for a shirt from him. It was fantastic. The shirt is hanging at my home and I am very proud of it.
"Sometimes he plays as a 'six' but then, despite his defensive duties, he doesn't lose his creativity. No matter where he plays, he always finds the balance between defending and attacking. That's how I want to play," added Kudus on the Reds' No.6.
"As a kid, I was always given the ball to make moves. Even if I lost it ten times, I kept trying. No matter where I am, I still play with that same creativity and joy. It has shaped me into the player I am today. I want to score more and finish better."
Liverpool line up against West Ham United tonight
How Liverpool will line against West Ham United in the absence of Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz
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| Darwin Nunez arriving before a match |
Liverpool welcome West Ham United to Anfield tonight in the Premier League looking to make it two consecutive wins in the space of three days.
Players Unavailable
- Diogo Jota — injury
- Luis Diaz — injury
- Joel Matip — injury
- Ibrahima Konate — injury
- Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain — injury
- Naby Keita — injury
Formation 4-3-3
Defence
- Virgil van Dijk — Centre-back
- Joe Gomez — Centre-back
- Alexander-Arnold — Right-back
- Andrew Robertson — Left-back
Midfield
- Fabinho — Defensive midfield
- Jordan Henderson — Defensive midfiel
- Harvey Elliott — Attacking midfield
Attack
- Darwin Nunez — Centre-forward
- Fabio Carvalho — Left-wing forward
- Mohamed Salah — Right-wing forward
Substitutes:
Caoimhin Kelleher, Kostas Tsimikas, Bajcetic, Calvin Ramsay, Thiago Alcantara, Curtis Jones, Nathan Phillips.
Harvey Elliott coming to limelight with his season chances
Harvey Elliott has high passing stats among the top players in the Premier League
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| Harvey Elliott in Liverpool's 1-0 win over Manchester City |
When Liverpool beat Manchester City, it was clear that the most impressive part of the day was how many candidates there were for the team’s man of the match.
Joe Gomez was recognized as the player of the match by the Reds.
Others thought Mohamed Salah or Alisson Becker deserved, maybe for their obvious 85th minute teamwor kthat led to the victory.
However, without achieving higher levels than some of his teammates, Harvey Elliott also showed great effort.
While on the pitch for 73 minutes, the young midfielder proved his passing capabilities while also providing a number of insightful moments to the audience.
In the report with the highest count, the 19-year-old moved the ball through open play channels into the penalty area five times.
This was more than any other player from either side did, and it exceeded the rest of the Liverpool team combined.
These two events marked the Reds’ only real shot at a half-time advantage during the first half. After Elliott delivered a corner, Portuguese forward Diogo Jota received the ball. However, his header sailed straight into Ederson’s hands.
The former Fulham youth player shows a strong tendency to deliver the ball into the box. He performed this task better than any Liverpool player at Ibrox last week.
Now ranked among 8 Premier players who passes the ball into the goalkeeper area ahead of tonight's clash between the Reds and West Ham, Elliott stands alone among his Liverpool peers.
Only three other players have played more passes in the 18-yard on a 90 minute basis as per Liverpool FC stat.
Liverpool take legal action over two publications amid Man City fallout
A national media report said Manchester City sources claimed Jurgen Klopp's pre-match comments were "borderline xenophobia"
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| Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool FC to take legal actions against The Times and Mail, it has been gathered |
Liverpool have taken legal action against a number of publications over claims that their manager Jurgen Klopp may have been "borderline xenophobic" when he spoke about Manchester City's spending power.
Liverpool's 1-0 win at Anfield in Sunday's Premier League clash was marred by a series of contentious incidents, including chants from Manchester City fans over the tragedies of Hillsborough and Heysel.
Liverpool issued a statement condemning the offensive chants, but City have not publicly commented on the actions of their supporters.
Meanwhile, a state media report after the game said City sources described Klopp's pre-match comments as "borderline xenophobia".
Now it has been gathered that The Times and one other media had published a post on Monday which has now been edited to carry a prompt saying: "This article is the subject of a legal complaint from Jürgen Klopp and Liverpool FC".
On Tuesday, Klopp dismissed any suggestion that he was xenophobic and insisted his comments about spending power were understood by clubs including Manchester City and Newcastle United.
He said: "I know myself and you cannot hit me with something that is miles away from my personality.
"If I would be like this - I actually can't remember the word (xenophobic) - I would hate myself for being like this. A lot of times I say things that are open for misunderstanding, I know it, but it's not intentional.
"Sometimes you say things and then later you realise 'oh my God! that could be understood [differently]' but this is not one of those times. It was not.
"Obviously not all of you journalists see it the same way. Some chief writers see it differently. It's an open world, obviously and we can have different views. That is how it is, so nothing else to say."
BREAKING: Jurgen Klopp charged by FA after Red card
The German was shown a straight red card and sent to the stands after yelling at an official during the Reds' 1-0 victory against Manchester City
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| Jurgen Klopp yells at assistant referee Gary Beswick |
I was stated earlier that further action against Klopp is likely to be taken for his reaction reaction towards the linesman Gary Beswick that joined referee Anthony Taylor to officiate the game between Liverpool and Manchester City, which the Reds won 1-0.
Now, the Liverpool manager has been charged for misconduct.
Klopp was seen yelling in front of assistant referee Beswick.
An FA spokesperson said: "Jurgen Klopp has been charged with breaching FA Rule E3 following the Premier League game between Liverpool FC and Manchester City FC on Sunday [16/10/22].
"The alleged behaviour of the Liverpool manager in the 86th minute of this game was inappropriate and he has until Friday [21/10/22] to respond."
Klopp could still be available to face West Ham on Wednesday, the Liverpool manager confirmed his availability on his press conference today, however there's only a slim chance now following the FA's confirmation.
Liverpool v Manchester City: Liverpool starting line up
Liverpool's starting XI against Manchester City
The Reds welcome City to Anfield in the Premier League this afternoon as they look to take all three points against Pep Guardiola's side after three consecutive games without a win.
Here's how the Reds line up for today's match:
Formation: 4-3-3
Attack
Roberto Firmino: Centre forward
Diogo Jota: Left wing forward
Mohamed Salah: Right wing forward
Midfield
Harvey Elliott: Attacking midfield
Fabinho: Defensive midfield
Thiago Alcantara: Defensive midfield
Defence
James Milner: Right back
Andrew Robertson: Left-back
Joe Gomez: Centre defence
Virgil van Dijk: Centre defence
Substitutes
Caoimhin Kelleher, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kostas Tsimikas, Darwin Nunez, Curtis Jones, Nathan Phillips, Bajcetic.
Liverpool still interested in signing Frank de Jong
De Jong is reportedly "unhappy" at Barcelona opening the door for a easy grasp from Anfield
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| Frenkie de Jong is said to be unhappy at Barcelona |
The Dutch international became a target for Liverpool during the summer but Manchester United were credited more with a move that they even agreed a deal with Barcelona, but had their approach turned down because the midfielder wanted to remain at the Spanish club.
De Jong is now said to be "dissatisfied" with the way Barcelona team has treated him, given his decision to stay at the club and sit on the bench several times under manager Xavi.
Liverpool's search for a midfielder continued after interest in signing Aurélien Tchouaméni in the summer culminated to the signing of Arthur Melo just before the deadline.
Liverpool, apparently will seek more midfield reinforce ments in the January transfer window if they continue to underperform.
Guardiola disagree he is facing a weak Liverpool side amid poor form
Liverpool have had an unexpectedly slow start to the new season
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| Pep Guardiola doesn't think Liverpool are a weak side despite poor form |
Pep Guardiola has insisted Liverpool's low position in the Premier League makes little sense as he prepares for another clash with the Merseysiders.
Guardiola takes his Manchester City side, the defending champions, to Anfield on Sunday to extend their 13-point lead over the Reds.
Jurgen Klopp's side, who have been City's main title rivals in recent years, have had an unexpectedly slow start to the new season, with just 10 points from eight games. Still, Guardiola has no doubts about the enduring quality of a team that came close to winning a quadruple last season.
“Two months ago, three months ago, Liverpool was fighting for an unprecedented situation in English football, fighting for four titles,” said the Spaniard.
“They won two, lost one by one point and, in the ( Champions League ) final, they had more shots on target, more chances, more everything than the opponent and they lost.
“For just two little details they could not achieve something that no English team had done. This the same team with the same manager.
“Those moments happen. We will have them. We try to avoid having bad moments but we will have them, and it’s part of the nature of the competition.
“I pay zero attention about good moments or bad moments. I analyse how the team is and I’m always expecting the best of them. This is how you have to approach it.
“It’s not necessary to tell the players. They know because in the last years we fought for multiple competitions and all the titles and they came close, really close.
“We were a little bit better, especially in the Premier League, but nothing has changed the opinion I can have about them.”
While Manchester City's summer signing Erling Haaland has made headlines with 20 goals in just 13 appearances this season, Liverpool's own star striker Mohamed Salah has struggled to find his form.
However, the Egyptian pointed out that his slump may have ended when he came off the bench in midweek and scored a six-minute hat-trick in the Champions League against Rangers.
On the impact both players can make for their respective side on Sunday, Guardiola said: “These type of players always score goals in their career. Sometimes they struggle a little bit because the team is not at their best but the quality is there.
“If both players (Salah and Haaland) have a half-chance, they can convert it, they are they’re so good. “It’s not (correct) to say Salah is not going to score goals anymore – he is always going to score, we know that.”
Jurgen Klopp can handover job to two Reds legend
Danny Murphy has been talking about the prospect of two former Liverpool players taking over managerial role from Jurgen Klopp
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| Danny Murphy |
Murphy believes both Steven Gerrard and Xabi Alonso could be candidates to replace the German at Anfield. Klopp has been under a lot of pressure lately with a looming game against title contenders Manchester City amid the Reds' poor start to the season.
Liverpool are currently 10th in the Premier League, having won just two of their first eight games. Several key Merseyside players have failed to impress in the English top-flight, with Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah all facing criticism from pundits and supporters.
The Reds' 7-1 Champions League win in midweek quelled doubts about Klopp in the short term, but tensions will ease again if the former Dortmund boss can beat Pep Guardiola's formidable Manchester City side on Sunday.
Murphy told Fair Gaming about Jurgen Klopp's position ahead of the game: “I think Steven Gerrard or Xabi Alonso could manage Liverpool, absolutely, yeah. I don’t think either of them have probably done just enough yet to warrant that.
“I don’t think there’s a Liverpool fan on the planet, irrelevant of the start of the season, that would be even thinking about a possible change with Klopp. I don’t see that at all.
“I think it’s a big couple of seasons for Stevie at Villa to show his credentials, implement his style. It’s been a little bit up and down for him at Villa. He’d probably be the first to say that, so we’ll have to wait and see.
“I think Alonso’s more in the infancy of his managerial career. So, you know, that’s a hard one to anticipate. I know he had a good first win, but in terms of their stature amongst Liverpool supporters and the legacy they’ve left, it would be silly not to think that one of them could be in the dugout at Anfield one day.”
Alonso was named head coach of Bayer Leverkusen earlier this month, leading the German side in his first game at the club to a 4-0 victory over Schalke.
Though Alonso's side came off worse against in the Champions League on Wednesday night, beaten 3-0 by Porto.
The former Reds midfielder is could be deemed far from competing for a management role at Anfield at this time, also Gerrard's recent performances at Villa suggest some bits of uncertainty.
Liverpool summer transfer target agrees new deal with Villa
Douglas Luiz has agreed to extend his contract with Aston Villa
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| Douglas Luiz has agreed to a contract extension with Aston Villa |
Liverpool were reportedly in for the Aston Villa midfielder as an emergency target before the summer transfer window deadline day.
But now it has been gathered that he has just signed a new deal to extend his stay with the Midlands club.
Luiz contract was due to expire next summer. A number of Premier League clubs including Arsenal had shown interest on the midfielder but have now been dealt a blow in the player's pursuit.
PSG want Kylian Mbappe and Mo Salah swap as player demands exit
Liverpool are long-term admirers of Kylian Mbappe
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| Kylian Mbappe |
PSG are ready to let Kylian Mbappe join Liverpool but plan to send Mo Salah to the French capital as a makeweight.
The report comes from Egyptian journalist Ismail Mahmoud, who described the Liverpool forward as "number one target" for the Paris side if Mbappe decide to leave the Parc des Princes.
Fabrizio Romano recently revealed that the former Monaco striker is "unhappy" in France but that Christophe Galtier's side have "no intention" of selling him in January.
Jurgen Klopp's side are said to be long-time admirers of the 23-year-old, with Real Madrid reportedly no longer interested in his signature, with Anfield seen as his next favourite.
Penalty too soft - Klopp blames officials
Liverpool suffered a 3-2 loss to Arsenal on Sunday
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| Thiago Alcantara "soft" challenge on Gabriel Jesus awarded penalty |
Bukayo Saka at the penalty spot after Darwin Nunes and Roberto Firmino equalised twice for the Reds in the first half through goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Saka Scored the winning goal.
Towards the end of the game, both Klopp and Mikel Arteta were approached by the referee as their tempers seemed to explode. When asked by Sky Sports' Jeff Schreeves if he would reveal what the official told him, Klopp bluntly replied: "No." When asked why he didn't elaborate, the German A statement was released: "Because I don't think I'm allowed."
On the penalty that led to the defeat, Klopp said:
"We should have sorted it before the penalty. We didn't do that. If it's a penalty, it's very, very soft. Mr England didn't think it was worth sending the referee to the screen, same in the first half with Diogo [Jota] on Gabriel. We can't change that anymore.
Klopp also confirmed a double injury blow on his side: "Two massive injury blows for us. Trent [Alexander-Arnold] and Luis. Luis Diaz - something with the knee, not good."
FA reviewing confrontation between Arsenal and Liverpool
The Football Association is investigating a confrontation between opposing players in Arsenal's 3-2 Premier League victory over Liverpool
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| Jurgen Klopp and Mikel Arteta cautioned during Arsenal's 3-2 win over Liverpool |
The Football Association is investigating a confrontation between opposing players in Arsenal's 3-2 Premier League victory over Liverpool.
Players from both sides clashed after referee Michael Oliver awarded Arsenal a penalty at the Emirates Stadium.
Oliver also spoke with the two managers on the sidelines following the incident.
The FA will speak to Oliver and his team of referees before deciding whether further steps should be taken.
"We are aware of an incident between Arsenal and Liverpool. We are in dialogue with match officials and will review the details of the incident," an FA spokesman said.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said in a TV interview after the game that he was "not allowed to provide any further details".
Arteta later told a news conference: "It was an incident that happened. Whatever happens on that pitch stays on that pitch."
Virgil van Dijk makes €5m Liverpool new signing revelation
Liverpool's ace centre-back Virgil van Dijk has shared his view on new Liverpool signing Calvin Ramsay who's returned to full training after injury
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| Virgil van Dijk |
Liverpool signed Ramsay for €4.9m during the summer transfer window.
However, the former Aberdeen right-back has yet to play for the Reds' first team.
The 19-year-old was injured before the start of the 2022-23 season but is now back to full training.
Van Dijk spoke about the youngster in an interview.
Calvin Ramsay"I've seen him outside the training ground more than he is on the training ground. But what I know about him so far is that he's a good boy," he told the Scot.
"He wants to work, he's learning every day from one of the best right-backs in the country. He's learning how we want to play and what we expect from a right-back.
"He needs time, but his time will come. I'm not worried. But he's been very positive with everyone."
Darwin Nunez: Sometimes it can take six months say former Everton man
Darwin Nunez should get more playing time to find his goalscoring form
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| Darwin Nunez applauds fans as he leaves the pitch during Liverpool's 2-0 win over Rangers |
That's according to former Everton striker Kevin Campbell who believes the Uruguayan will need more time, even up to six months to settle on Merseyside.
Liverpool agreed a deal worth up to £85.5m with Benfica in the summer, which includes add-ons for Nunez. However, the 23-year-old has only scored twice since moving to Merseyside.
Nunez's last appearance takes him to the top
against Rangers in the Champions League. Despite multiple attempts to score, the Uruguayan repeatedly failed to beat goalkeeper Alan McGregor.
Former Everton striker Kevin Campbell has explained why he thinks Nunes has struggled since moving to Anfield. The former Blues striker has given a timetable on how long he thinks the Liverpool star will take to settle on Merseyside.
Campbell told Football Insider: “This is one of the problems when you go to a club like Liverpool with the levels they expect to be at.
“His sending-off did him no favours. He was still getting used to the Premier League.
“He’s missed three games, come back – and now he’s not scoring. He’s not hit the ground running.
“Sometimes, it takes six months to settle in. Jurgen Klopp has the squad to change things around.
“He’s got to find the right balance, and he’s gone back to his tried and tested – and it’s worked, in a sense.
“Nunez will get his game time, and Liverpool will come good. It’s just a difficult time for him right now.”
Erling Haaland jaw-dropping weekly wages unveiled
Erling Haaland is Premier League highest paid player according to a report
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| Haaland was again on the scoresheet twice against Copenhagen |
Haaland has appeared to be worth the money Pep Guardiola's side acquired him for during the summer transfer window after starting the 2022-23 season with record-breaking performances.
Haaland has 14 goals in his first eight Premier League appearances and a hat-trick in his last three at the Etihad Stadium. The Norway international has exceeded the already high expectations him, and his performance in the Champions League has led many to believe that City are the ones to be beaten in the competition.
Guardiola is committed to helping Manchester City win the prestigious European trophy, so Haaland will justify any payment for his services by helping the team accomplish this feat. The striker joined from Borussia Dortmund for £63m, a fraction of what he really is worth.
According to the Daily Mail Manchester City are paying Haaland almost £900,000 a week putting him as the highest paid player in the Premier League.
The breathtaking side of this report is that 900k a week puts Haaland as one of the highest paid players in world football while he earns a combined salary of both Premier League respected forwards — Mohamed Salah and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Funny? If he earns up to a £900,000 a week, that would make him the highest paid player in Europe as well.
Cristiano Ronaldo currently earns £515,000 at Manchester United while Mohamed Salah is on a £350,000 per week payments at Liverpool
Konate reveals stunning transfer conversation with Klopp
Ibrahima Konat has opened up on talks with Jurgen Klopp prior to his £36m move to Liverpool in May 2021
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| Ibrahima Konate reveals conversation with Klopp before joining Liverpool |
The France international told Onze Mondial that he had spoken to Klopp before switching from RB Leipzig to Liverpool.
Konate apparently found Klopp a bit dramatic, as he admits he thought he was being flattered by the 55-year-old during the conversation.
The Liverpool centre-back said: "I remember talking to the coach on the phone before I signed. He said to me 'From the day you joined Liverpool, it will never be the same for you, your life will be Change'.
"Wherever you travel in the world, you'll see what I'm telling you. In my head, I'm like, 'Okay, okay, this is an amazing club with a long history, but it's cool '. I traveled a lot, was in Zanzibar this summer and took at least 50 pictures a day. Then his sentence came back to me. I thought: This is crazy."
Darwin Nunez and Virgil van Dijk outburst explained
Darwin Nunez complained to Van Dijk "the ball doesn't want to go in"
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| Darwin Nunez and Virgil van Dijk |
New footage has emerged of Nunes venting his displeasure with Van Dijk when he failed to score during Liverpool's 2-0 win over Rangers. Five minutes before half-time, the striker turned towards the Dutchman, who was running back into position.
He then seemed to say "No quiere entrar hermano" to Van Dijk, who seemed to encourage him. Roughly translated, the phrase means: "It (the ball) doesn't want to go in, bro."
Nunes started for the Reds at Anfield but endured another disappointing night. He had six shots in total, four of which were on target and another was blocked by a Rangers defense.
But he found that Rangers goalkeeper Alan McGregor was inspired and the Scot made an impressive series of saves to stop Nunes. The Uruguay star joked that some of his problems stem from not being able to understand Klopp:
"The truth is, I honestly don't understand anything when he (Klopp) talks in team talks. Of course, I ask my teammates to see what he said, but I think he is very clear about his style of play," he said.
"Sometimes I feel a little indecisive, I don’t feel completely confident. But as time goes on, it gets better. The coach always gives me confidence, like Pep and Vitor, who are the ones who always translate for us. He gives me confidence.
“And also my companions, who always talk to me, tell me to stay calm. When they talk, I feel calmer because I know that if I do something wrong, they will always support me. And I will also always be here to support them, it’s a very united group.
“I have to show my game to the coach and be calmer when it’s time to shoot. The goal will come. It’s like ketchup, when it comes out a little, it all comes out.”
Klopp has remained calm on the problems Nunes has faced since taking office. Despite missing a goal on Tuesday night, he insisted that the Uruguayan's performance was impressive.
"The way the boys moved up front today together I thought was extremely, extremely good for only one session working on it, to be honest. We never did it before," the Liverpool boss said.
"We had now one session with a low intensity because we only played recently. So, you just see how good a striker Darwin is to be constantly in these situations. I think everybody saw tonight that this [scoring goals] will happen, so all good."
Liverpool's almost finalised deal comes to light
It has been claimed that Wolves midfielder Reuben Neves rejected Liverpool offer in the summer
- Neves was rumored to be of interest to Liverpool before Arthur was recruited.
- There was talk that Portugal's International would depart Molineux during the summer transfer window.
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| Reuben Neves stars for Portugal in the Nations League last month |
Liverpool were reported to have pursued numerous new midfielders over the summer, but only on the stroke of the deadline did Klopp enhance that area of the field by acquiring Arthur Melo on a temporary transfer from Juventus for the year.
Neves was rumored to be of interest to Liverpool before Arthur was recruited. There was talk that Portugal's International would depart Molineux this summer.
Now, according to the Spanish news source Sport, the Reds and Manchester United attempted to negotiate a deal with Neves' representatives. However, the report states that the 25 year old exhibited little desire to negotiate with either club and as a result, their proposals never progressed. This is because it's been said Neves already chose Barcelona as the team to join next summer.
Every Liverpool injury updates ahead of Arsenal clash
Liverpool return to Premier League action for Sunday's clash with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium
- Liverpool are expected to be without some injured players
- The Reds are back on track to win after beating Rangers 2-0 in Champions League Group A on Tuesday
- They are now aiming for a winning streak against Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday
- Jurgen Klopp has welcomed a number of injured faces recently, including Ibrahima Konat, Calvin Ramsey and Coim Kelleher
Here's everything you need to know about the current state of Anfield and the expected return date for the injured.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has not played a game this season after suffering another long-term injury in Singapore's 2-0 pre-season friendly against Crystal Palace on July 15.
The 28-year-old was sent off just before half-time with a hamstring problem and spent a long time in the treatment room. However, Klopp would like to see the Englishman return sometime this month, but an unspecified date makes it unclear when that might be.
Andy Robertson
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| Andrew Robertson during the 4-1 loss to Napoli |
Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson can finally return to action this weekend after suffering a knee injury in the embers of Napoli's 4-1 humiliating defeat on September 7.
The defender missed Liverpool's last three games and was subsequently ruled out of Scotland's Nations League game last month, giving him extra time to recover during the recent international break, although he has been out since his return. Did not play for the Red Army. Hopefully, though, he'll be able to make a selection this weekend.
On September 30, Klopp said: "He's doing really well. He looks really good, so he hasn't been out for long; you've been away too long if you want, but it's an international break in this kind of game. The situation helps. He's already on the pitch, which is a good sign. I don't know if it's next week or a week after, I don't know."
Naby Keita
Naby Keita has yet to play once for Liverpool this season after suffering a long-term thigh injury after a five-minute cameo in the 3-1 Community Shield win over Manchester City on July 30, before falling ill to attack.
There was optimism about the midfielder's return when he was called up to the Guinea national team during the international break, despite his immediate withdrawal from the competition. Klopp has revealed that he expects Keita to return sometime this month, although it is unclear when that might be.
On September 12, Klopp said: "No, I don't expect him [Keita] to go on international duty. The expected return date is somewhere in October, so we have to make a decision."
Curtis Jones
Jones found himself back in the treatment room after Liverpool played Newcastle on August 31, where he made the bench as an unused substitute. The England midfielder had made his comeback from an injury before the matchday.
Jones has missed Liverpool's last five games following a relapse from a previous injury that doesn't appear to be going away. The 21-year-old is currently working to get back to full fitness, although he may not be back in action anytime soon.
On September 6, Klopp said: "When he was out previously he had a stress reaction in a specific bone around the tibia. It was absolutely fine, no problem anymore; trained twice, felt it again. It was not as bad as the first time but bad enough for not being involved in team training again, which is not very helpful."
Liverpool legend appointed as Bayer Leverkusen manager
Bayer Leverkusen have appointed former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso as their new manager
- Bayer Leverkusen confirmed the firing of from Gerardo Seoane
- They replaced him with the former Liverpool and Real Madrid star Xabi Alonso
- Thomas Tuchel is believed to have rejected offers from Bundesliga clubs
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| Xabi Alonso is new Bayer Leverkusen manager after the dismissal of Gerardo Seoane |
The German club has had a poor start to the new season, becoming the second-lowest team to score five points from eight games so far
Bundesliga.
And now Bayer Leverkusen have made the move, sacking Seoane and replacing him with Alonso, as they beat Porto 2-0 in a disappointing Champions League defeat on Tuesday.
A statement from the club on Wednesday confirmed the news. It says:
"Bayer 04 Leverkusen have parted company with head coach Gerardo Seoane. The Swiss coach is followed by Xabi Alonso who has a contract to 30 June 2024."
The club's sporting director Simon Rolfes further explained the reasons for Seoane's dismissal.
"Gerardo Seoane has done good work for Bayer 04 over the past one and a half years, above all with the outstanding qualification for the Champions League,' he said.
"Unfortunately, we have left the path of success. The early exit from the DFB Cup but in particular the current position in the Bundesliga, which does not meet our expectations, has compelled us to change coaches."
Jurgen Klopp uses Ronaldo to describe Liverpool season woe
When describing the Reds' current slumping, Jurgen Klopp often mentions Cristiano Ronaldo
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| Klopp in a press conference ahead of Champions League meeting with Rangers |
The Liverpool manager linked his players' low confidence to the five-time Ballon d'Or winner who has mostly been on the Manchester United bench this season.
Since the start of the season, Liverpool has only won two of their seven Premier League games. On Saturday afternoon, the Reds played a 3-3 draw with Brighton and Hove Albion.
Liverpool succumbed to two goals against the Seagulls before Leandro Trossard heroically scored a last-minute hat trick to level 3-3. Despite Liverpool's dismal run of form.
Manager Klopp held a press conference on Monday to discuss his team's mindset ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash with Rangers. He explained to his team members that they're feeling the same way Ronaldo does about not winning games, adding that they'd need to find new confidence before long.
Klopp said: "Do you think Cristiano Ronaldo at the moment is at the top of his confidence? It happens to all of us. "Lionel Messi last season pretty much the same. You have to take a step in the right direction and when you're ready, it's back.
"In individual sports you can fight yourself through it. In team sport, you have to do it together. It can be more complicated."
On playing Rangers amid his side's poor form, Klopp added: "Had we won the Brighton game it would have been a different feeling but with similar problems.
"It was only two years ago we were in a similar situation when we lost all our centre-halves but we found a way out by working on it. That's what we will do this time.
"We realised after [losing to] Napoli it was a low point and we had to change things quickly. We didn't play Wolves, played Ajax, then didn't play Chelsea and couldn't keep up anything from the Ajax win. Then we played Brighton, a really good team and conceded two early goals.
"When you spot a problem and think you have the solution and you expect the solution to be instant and influential. That's in football never the case."
Liverpool star hospitalised after ankle injury
Liverpool loaned star Sepp van den Berg has been taken to hospital after sustaining an ankle injury with his new club Schalke
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| Darwin Nunez and Sepp van den Berg in Liverpool training |
Van den Berg joined Schalke 04 on loan during the summer transfer window and has made an impressive start with the Bundesliga club.
The Dutch centre-half started four league games after arriving late in the transfer window and was involved in Sunday's 3-2 win over Augsburg.
Unfortunately, according to Schalke's Twitter page, as the tweet below shows, Vandenberg has been hospitalized after suffering an ankle injury.
The tweet, translated into English, read: "Sep Vandenberg is on his way to the hospital with a suspected ankle injury. Sepp, our prayers for you!"
Liverpool and Schalke will be praying that the injury isn't too serious, but being hospitalized mid-match is never a good sign.
Vandenberg received treatment on the field and was then taken off a stretcher and taken directly to the hospital for further treatment.
Liverpool FC committee sends message of support after stadium crush
A group of Hillsborough survivors have sent a message of support to victims of the Kanjuluhan Stadium crush in Indonesia
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| Poor policing tactics result to scores of dead football fans at the Kanjuluhan Stadium in Indonesia |
Hillsborough survivor sends message of support after crush on Indonesian footballer
A group of Hillsborough survivors have sent a message of support to victims of the Kanjuluhan Stadium crush.
The Hillsborough Survivors Support Coalition sent a message of support to the families of the victims this morning, Sunday, October 2. At least 174 people were killed in crowds at a football stadium in Indonesia in one of the world's worst stadium disasters.
About 180 people were injured after home football club Arema lost to rivals Persebaya Surabaya at the crowded Kanjuluhan Stadium. The brawl broke out after police fired tear gas at fans who broke into the stadium.
Thousands of people are believed to have flocked to the stadium exit as panic spread, many suffocating to death. FIFA, the world's governing body of football, has ruled that "crowd control gas" should not be used by stewards or police during matches.
The Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) said it had launched an investigation, adding that the incident "sullied the face of Indonesian football".
This morning, the Hillsborough Survivors Support League tweeted that "no one should go to a football match and not return home."
The full tweet read: "Our thoughts are with the people of Indonesia and everyone affected by the incident at Kanjuluhan Stadium. Our thoughts are with the survivors and families of the deceased. RIP. No one should go to a match and not go home."
In 1989, a crush broke out at Hillsborough Stadium, killing 97 Liverpool fans in the club's FA Cup semi-final. Both Liverpool FC and Everton FC also sent messages of support to those affected by the tragedy at Kanjuluhan Stadium.
Liverpool FC tweeted: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the events at Kanjuruhan Stadium, Malang, Indonesia. The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool Football Club are with all those affected at this time."
Everton FC tweeted: "Everton Football Club is deeply saddened by the tragedy in Malang, Indonesia. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families and everyone affected."
Liverpool target made his decision after he turned down offer
Ruben Neves turned down Liverpool beacause he wants Barcelona move next summer
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| Ruben Neves |
That's according to reports from Spanish news outlets Sports.
They claimed Liverpool were in talks with Neves agent about a move during the summer transfer window , however the player personally refused to proceed with negotiations, stating his ambition to play for Barcelona next season was all tied up to his repudiation.
The Spanish media says Wolves demanded a £43m fee from Barcelona for Neves at the same period but the Catalans weren't able to meet their asking price due to insufficient funds after completing several deals.
The Catalans will be back next summer for the Portuguese midfielder, it is understood, as they seek for a long-term replacement for the club captain Sergio Busquet.
Carlo Ancelotti agrees to Suarez comparison of Reds midfield target to Steven Gerrard
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has responded to Luis Suarez's comments about a player linked to Liverpool
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| Carlo Ancelotti |
Suarez spent three and a half years at Anfield, scoring 82 goals in that time. He went on to play for Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid and is now back in his country playing for Nacional.
Liverpool reportedly made an £86m offer for the Federico Valverde in the summer, but it was quickly rejected by La Liga giants Real Madrid. The link hasn't gone away, and reports have since suggested Liverpool would "try again" to sign Valverde.
Suarez has spoken of Valverde recently, claiming the fellow countryman is similar to Reds legend Steven Gerrard.
He told Marca: "I, honestly, and there are the newspaper archives, already in 2017, when Fede debuted in the National Team, I already said that he reminded me of Steven Gerrard, who was my teammate at Liverpool.
"He has similar conditions. A box to box, with punch, change of pace, a lot of arrival... I don't want to compare, but the characteristics are similar.
“I saw Fede coming and he has made tremendous progress, surrounded by big stars. He did very well."
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| Federico Valverde has been a rumoured transfer target for Liverpool |
Now, Real Madrid boss Ancelotti, who was asked about Suarez's comments on Valverde, has reacted to the claims. The Real Madrid boss said he felt the same way and claimed the midfielder is likened to Gerrard.
“I agree, he has a lot of the same talents as Gerrard,” Ancelotti told Spanish news outlet Marca, via Sportstar.
“It’s very good that they are comparing him with a player that has had this success.
“I think that Federico has everything he needs to reach Gerrard’s level and go even further still.”
He is Liverpool weakness - Michael Owen's verdict on Trent Alexander-Arnold
Michael Owen has said Trent Alexander-Arnold was one of Liverpool's greatest attacking partners, but also their weakness
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Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold has come under scrutiny for his defensive weaknesses. The right-back endured another scorching afternoon as Liverpool were beaten 3-3 by Brighton.
The Reds will meet Rangers in the Champions League on Tuesday night.
Liverpool and England striker legend Michael Owen saw Alexander-Arnold embarrassed by Napoli in his Champions League opener and his defensive fragility has been highlighted ever since.
"Most teams that play Liverpool see Trent as one of the biggest attacking threats they need to stop. For the same reason, they'll also say their best chance of getting in is with him," Owen said.
"Jordan Henderson has tended to try and cover for him but sometimes Jordan is not playing and that has been a cause for concern in certain games. One of Liverpool's biggest strengths can also be one of their biggest weaknesses.
"(Rangers winger) Ryan Kent will obviously know that. I'm sure he still watches Liverpool and there will be a huge part of him that is fond of the club.
"If you are an opposing manager you are looking for a player to make those out-to-in runs, especially if Trent vacates.
"Liverpool have a lot of the ball at Anfield so Trent is going to be sucked into those advanced positions.
"If Rangers can win it and be brave enough to leave Kent in almost cheating positions, they could counter-attack with a bit of force."
Could've scored more - Hat trick hero Trossard makes lucky-Liverpool hint
Liverpool were held to a 3-3 draw by Brighton at Anfield on Saturday
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| Hat trick hero Leandro Trossard celebrates his goal against Liverpool |
Brighton star Leandro Trossard has explained the motivation behind his performance against Liverpool after his latest hat-trick.
The Reds lost two more points in the Premier League after a 3-3 draw with Brighton. Roberto Firmino scored twice and Adam Webster's own goal gave Jurgen Klopp's men their third but couldn't keep to the lead.
Trossard now has five goals in seven games against Liverpool. He also scored against the Reds in last season's 2-2 draw at Anfield.
After the game, Trossard hinted it was a lucky day for Liverpool as the Reds narrowly escaped with a point and not conceding more goals.
“Maybe in one way, but we could have scored more and maybe the draw is quite fair.
“But you always want more, especially if you are 2-0 up. At the end we should be happy with a point, and it was a great performance from us.”
On his hat trick performance, the Brighton forward said: “Obviously it’s a big game and you always want to show yourself in the best possible way.
“Hopefully I can carry this form on, but I’m happy with the team after we reacted brilliantly after we went 3-2 down and it’s up to them as well.”
“It’s always nice if you can score three, especially at Anfield. It’s a shame we couldn’t get the three points, but we are still happy with a point.
“At Anfield it’s always a tough game against a superb team.”
Jurgen Klopp finally admits to missing Sadio Mane
Liverpool were held to a 3-3 draw on Saturday at Anfield
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| Jurgen Klopp during Liverpool's 3-3 draw with Brighton at Anfield |
Jurgen Klopp has admitted he misses Sadio Mane, further underscoring the striker's departure from Liverpool in the summer.
After joining the Reds in 2016, Mane scored 120 goals in 269 games, helping Liverpool win all the Grand Slam titles under Klopp.
However, the striker decided to end his Anfield career following last season's Champions League loss to Real Madrid with his Liverpool contract ready to expire next summer.
The Senegal international, who has been pushing for a move to Bayern Munich was granted his request for a £35m fee agreement.
And amidst his absence since the beginning of the new season Liverpool have struggled.
Klopp was asked about Mane's departure following Liverpool's 3-3 draw with Brighton, the German first appeared to hit back at the suggestion that his team's mixed form so far this season was due to the ex-Southampton man's departure but later admitted he missed the CAF Player of the Year winner.
"A good guy and a top player. But missing it sounds like I still want him here. I think it's really okay that Sadio just wanted to do something different,” Klopp told Sky Germany.
"Absolutely. I totally respect that. The way it went was great. We knew that he would do something different without breaking up badly. That must be possible in life.
“That's exactly what happened. Missing? Yes! But I'm happy too. That he's where he wanted to be. We'll solve our problems here.
“Sadio is an outstanding player. Everyone in Munich saw that too. He's absolutely world class. Everything will be fine."
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