Liverpool are keeping a close watch on Leeds United trio Kalvin Phillips, Raphinha and Illan Meslier who have all looked the part under Marcelo Bielsa
According to Football Insider, Premier League giants Liverpool are keeping close tabs on Leeds United trio of Kalvin Phillips, Raphinha and Illan Meslier. They have all been impressive for the Whites.
The three have been among Marcelo Bielsa’s best performers at Elland Road. Phillips even showcased his abilities at last summer’s Euros, playing a key role in England’s run to the final.
Jurgen Klopp’s midfield is filled with veterans. Jordan Henderson, James Milner and Thiago Alcantara are all seasoned performers but are now in their thirties. An infusion of young blood will help secure the future of the club for years to come.
In Phillips, they can get just the man. At 24, he is young enough to be considered a long-term investment and old enough to be a seasoned performer in the English game. A no-nonsense player, his addition would prove invaluable.
Raphinha, meanwhile, is a name familiar to Liverpool fans. The Brazilian has often been linked with a move to Anfield and is a dominating presence down the flank. A physically strong player who can hold his own in the Premier League could be the next big winger to take the next level at Liverpool.
Sadio Mane has lost his edge and is not getting any younger. Mohamed Salah is still at his peak but will need support from those alongside him. Raphinha has a better output rate than the likes of Adama Traore and would make a handy addition.
Curiously enough, it could be Meslier who could prove to be bang for the buck. The 21-year-old is already the first choice goalkeeper at Elland Road and has a bright future ahead of him. Despite being a giant at 6ft 5in, the Frenchman is agile, a commanding shot-stopper and also outstanding with the ball at his feet. This makes him an excellent addition to a Liverpool side that often plays from the back.
Alisson Becker is the undisputed number one at Anfield. He recently penned a six-year deal and, at 29, has several peak years ahead of him. While it is debatable if Meslier will displace the Brazilian, he can at the very least be a dependable backup. In time, if he continues to develop as expected, the 21-year-old could even take over from Alisson. Liverpool can, in one move, ensure their conveyor belt of dependable shot-stoppers keeps going.
All three players add something important to Liverpool in an area that need strengthening. They are all key players for Leeds, and it remains to be seen if they will sell even one, let alone all three, that too to a direct rival. Or will Leeds be the new Southampton? Time will tell.
