Liverpool are reportedly considering a €20 million move for Schalke defender Benedikt Howedes, in a desperate attempt to strengthen their defence
According to a tweet by DW Sports, Liverpool are interested in a €20 million deal for Schalke defender Benedikt Höwedes, with manager Jurgen Klopp keen on boosting the defence. While people are raving about how Liverpool have a strong attack, the Reds have also been criticized greatly for their poor defence.
The 29-year-old German defender is believed to be seeking an exit from Schalke, but does not fancy moving to a rival Bundesliga club. He is, however, open to a move abroad, making it an ideal chance for Liverpool to bolster their defence after receiving a lot of criticism from fans and pundits alike.
Howedes has been playing for Schalke throughout his career. He made his senior debut for the club in 2007, and has made over 300 appearances for the club in all competitions since then. Howedes also served as a captain for Schalke until goalkeeper Ralf Fährmann replaced him this season.
Howedes rose through the club’s youth ranks to become a mainstay in their starting lineup over the past decade, and the versatile defender would be a shrewd acquisition to Klopp’s first-team setup if he makes the switch this summer. The 29-year-old primarily plays as a centre-back, but is also capable of playing on either sides of defence and as a defensive midfielder.
The defender has been an instrumental figure for Germany as well. He was a part of the triumphant German national side that lifted the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Howedes arguably has a lot of experience, and his leadership skills can prove to be invaluable for a side like Liverpool.
The Merseyside club’s defensive vulnerabilities prevented them from truly challenging for the Premier League title last season, and the same can happen this time as well unless they make quality additions. They have been linked to Virgil van Dijk for months now, but it remains to be seen if Howedes would be a viable alternative to Van Dijk.
Central defence is one area where Jurgen Klopp needs reinforcements. With Dejan Lovren putting up unconvincing performances, Joe Gomez taking time to settle in, and Mamadou Sakho not being a part of Klopp’s plans, signing an experienced defender is of paramount importance, making a Howedes a good option.
