I see a lot of Liverpool supporters are genuinely upset and demanding a DM like player be bought immediately. But, honestly, can anyone tell me of a current DM they would be interested in signing? I will not deny the need for one, or at least a midfielder with a more defensive mindset. However, no one really stands out as a MUST BUY option.
Ederson has been mentioned, but he is going off one good season. I will admit, I have only ever seen him against Liverpool and been impressed. But, as many know, these types of signings do not always work out well, in a new environment, system and role, compared to what they previously played. Plus, apparently valued at £50 million, and I am not sure he is worth that, at least at this time.
Zubimendi looked like an able replacement for Rodri in the Euro final, which is a huge testament to the player. But, once again, no one was mentioning his name before that final. He’s coming into his prime years, though, looks capable under pressure and selects the right passing option, which is vital in our system, as our midfield look to progress the play further up the pitch. A possibility, but like Ederson, I have seen so little of him to know if he is viable.
Who are the others options? No one really stands out to me. This is not a shot at people desperate for a DM, mind you. I just don’t see the necessary quality out there at the moment. It might emerge in a year or two, but that is also a huge risk because it might never emerge.
Tyler Morton and Bajcetic looked decent at 6, but that is a huge step up in quality opposition and pressure to put on a player that missed out on 1 year of football experience and education, respectively. Macca seems a cert to play the deeper midfield role / pivot. But, who plays alongside him?
I know people will kill me for this, as it has been talked about and shot down often. But, at this point, why not Trent? Honestly, half the reason is that I think Bradley is a genuine special talent. He has the perfect balance of attacking and defensive quality, hardworking, possesses great speed. We, of course, need to manage his time, as injuries did hamper his availability last season, but I also think he is a player that simply has to play the majority of games, rather than be sat on the bench.
Trent is also in his last year, and has spoken often about his preference to play CM, like he did in his youth. Many have spoken of his defensive liabilities, which for me are equal parts Klopp’s system and his own waning concentration. Maybe playing CM, giving the lad what he wants, will push him to a new level, to prove to everyone all over again that he can make the position his, like he did at right back.
Just my loose thoughts, obviously if there is a player I missed, a viable option, then that is great. But, for me, there is no one really that can take us to that next level, in terms of a defensive minded DM. Good players, mind you, just not of the quality to compete with the best, i.e. Rodri, Rice, etc.