#2 Sead Kolasinac
Liverpool’s left-back problems are well-documented. Since the departure of injury-prone Fabio Aurelio in 2012, the Reds are yet to field a quality full-back on the left. Jon Flanagan, a right-back by trade, filled the role well in Liverpool’s title challenge during the 2013/14 season but an injury stalled his progress and he is currently out of favour.
Jose Enrique did not possess the necessary game intelligence to play for Liverpool and in the case of Alberto Moreno, early signs pointed towards him finally plugging the problematic position. However, his superb attacking prowess could not mask his defensive weaknesses and the Reds went into the market last summer, trying to sign another left-back.
The efforts to sign a left-back failed and James Milner, the utility man, was converted to a full-back. He has been solid and at times spectacular. But the lack of pace and the inclination to cut back to his preferred right-foot before delivering the ball has slowed down Liverpool’s attacks many a time and this definitely needs rectifying in the summer.
Klopp needs the money to buy top players for more central positions, so a better option would be a free transfer. Further, given the success of Joel Matip’s transfer last summer, Klopp can return to the same club, Schalke, to sign their left-back Sead Kolasinac, who is out of contract in the summer.
The 23-year-old Bosnian has been a consistent performer for Schalke and has three goals along with seven assists so far this season. Currently, a number of clubs including Arsenal are rumoured to be vying for his signature and Klopp must get him to Merseyside.
Signing an experienced Bundesliga player at 23 years of age could prove to be the master-stroke that finally resolves a long-standing problem.
(Video Courtesy – WorldofFootballHD YouTube Channel)
