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Liverpool transfer news: 5 January targets for Klopp

By Joel Slagle

BRIGHTON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 02: Jurgen Klopp, Manager of Liverpool looks on before the Premier League match between Brighton and Hove Albion and Liverpool at Amex Stadium on December 2, 2017 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
BRIGHTON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 02: Jurgen Klopp, Manager of Liverpool looks on before the Premier League match between Brighton and Hove Albion and Liverpool at Amex Stadium on December 2, 2017 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images) /
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RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – JULY 13: Philipp Lahm of Germany lifts the World Cup trophy with teammates after defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Final match between Germany and Argentina at Maracana on July 13, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – JULY 13: Philipp Lahm of Germany lifts the World Cup trophy with teammates after defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Final match between Germany and Argentina at Maracana on July 13, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images) /

The German fullback with more assists than Kevin De Bruyne

Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea are all in the market for a new left back. Philipp Max has been linked to Manchester City, but Liverpool can put together an irresistible package for the young German.

Klopp has already brought in a few players from the Bundesliga, and Anfield is a perfect destination for German players looking to break into the Premier League. Max is pulling up trees at his current club Augsburg. Remarkably, he has more assists than Kevin De Bruyne this season. His ability to bomb forward and contribute to the attack is a perfect fit for Klopp’s system.

Currently, summer signing Andrew Robertson is holding down the left side for the Reds. Such are Klopp’s options though, he must occasionally field Alberto Moreno and James Milner there as well. While it would be possible to ease Max into the starting lineup, the flying German fullback could contribute immediately.

The ability to break into the starting XI is important ahead of the World Cup. The left side of defense has been a problem for the German national team for years. A series of good performances this spring should book Max’s place on the plane to Russia.

A move to Manchester City could see his place come under threat once Benjamin Mendy returns from injury. Signing for Manchester United would be a calculated risk for Max since there are currently a number of players in the squad who can play in his position. Chelsea does not have a number of left backs, but it could prove difficult to dislodge Marco Alonso.

Liverpool offers immediate playing time, Champions League football and lovable/terrifying German manager. It is the clear choice for a talented and ambitious German fullback.

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