Liverpool have long sought to replace their iconic talisman Steven Gerrard and it seems they have finally found their man.
In the ground at Anfield and on the turf, the legendary shadows of Steven Gerrard still linger in front of the Kop. Liverpool’s former number 8 may have departed almost four years ago, but his absence is still felt at times despite Liverpool’s phenomenal success under Jurgen Klopp.
In Germany in North Rhine-Westphalia, more specifically the industrial city of Leverkusen, there is a young emerging German midfielder who posses similar traits to the legendary scouse figure. He too plays in midfield and he too has the long legs and the long darting stride which were characteristics of the Liverpool legend.
That man is the rising jewel of Germany; Kai Havertz. And according to the Metro it is Havertz who Liverpool see as the man to fill the boots of the club’s former legendary midfielder.
Havertz has been thoroughly impressive thus far in his fledgling career. He made his debut for Bayer Leverkusen at just 17 years of age during the 16/17 season and has established himself as a regular member of the side since then.
He became the youngest player to play fifty Bundesliga games at just 18 years of age.
Last campaign, Havertz had his most astonishing season to date. The German international netted 17 goals and gave out 4 assists in 34 Bundesliga appearances, those figures are certainly reminiscent of Stevie G.
Havertz’s also made his debut for Germany’s international side and scored his first senior international goal against Argentina in October.
Being a fellow compatriot of Jurgen Klopp Havertz is certainly the ideal Liverpool player. He has great exuberant energy and is the perfect all round midfielder with his constant pressing of the opposition. Klopp is undoubtedly a big admirer of the German.
Liverpool have at times struggled to break down strong and rigid defences who have set-up to stifle the Reds’ free flowing attack and Havertz may be the man who provides the creative and attacking flair which Liverpool have lacked from midfield.
And if the Metro’s report is anything to go by, Havertz certainly has the potential to fill Steven Gerrard’s legendary shoes. He has got a great long range shot and the uncanny ability to make clever runs into the box and end up on the end of crosses to find the back of the net.
Liverpool are expected a mass cash infusion thanks to the recent kit supplier deal they have struck with Nike and they will certainly have no problems financing Havertz’s £81 million transfer value according to Transfermarkt.
He could become the perfect player under Klopp, and with his fellow German’s guidance Havertz could establish himself as one of the best midfielders in world football right now. Linking up with Liverpool’s front three, the Reds could establish a side that will dominate football for years to come.
But the Reds will have to fight off strong competition for the German’s services. Havertz is one of the most coveted prospects in the Bundesliga and a whole host of clubs will no doubt be interested in acquiring his services.
What do you think will Havertz end up at Liverpool?