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DISCLAIMER: This article reflects the opinions of the writer and not necessarily those of SportsKeeda.
Over the past couple of seasons, Liverpool have become a football club that is on the decline. It’s been almost three seasons since the Reds last played in the Champions League and although they are still fighting for a top four finish this season, it looks highly unlikely with every passing game.
So, how can the Reds bring back their happy days? Here are the five signings that can help Liverpool finish in the top four of the Premier League next season and help them bring Champions League football back to Anfield.
Victor Valdes (Barcelona | Goalkeeper)
The Spanish international has revealed that he won’t be signing a new contract at Barcelona when his contract expires at the end of next season and, as a result, Victor Valdes is expected to be sold this summer. With Pepe Reina having a poor season in goal, the former Barcelona and Villarreal keeper’s future at Anfield remains unclear. Barcelona are expected to make a move for Reina as a replacement for Valdes, and a deal could happen between the two clubs with the latter going in the opposite direction. It will be a deal which will be a good one for all parties involved, as 31-year-old Valdes still remains one of the best shot-stoppers in the world.
Fernando Amorebieta (Athletic Bilbao | Defender)
With Sebastian Coates expected to leave in the summer and Jamie Carragher set to retire at the end of the season, signing a new centre-back must be top priority at Liverpool and Fernando Amorebieta fits the bill. The Venezuelan international is highly experienced and has made over 250 appearances for Athletic Bilbao during his eight years at the club. He won’t cost a lot as he is expected to leave in the summer after the club decided against offering him a new contract and he would be a good addition to the Liverpool backline. The Reds, though, will have to make a move quickly as the likes of Arsenal, Everton and Norwich are also interested in 6′ 4″ towering defender.
Modibo Diakite (Lazio | Defender)
The Frenchman has been solid as a rock in the heart of Lazio’s defence, which has conceded just 29 goals this season and are third in the Serie A. The 25-year-old’s impressive performances have attracted interest from the likes of Arsenal and Napoli, and is also on Brendan Rodgers’ shortlist. Diakite is big, strong and physical, and would be a great replacement for Jamie Carragher, who is set to hang up his boots at the end of the season. With his contract up in the summer, he is available for free and would be a great addition to the Premier League.
James McCarthy (Wigan Athletic | Midfielder)
James McCarthy may not be a household name in the Premier League, but his performances this season have been very impressive and have caught the eye of many. The 22-year-old has been the main man in midfield for Wigan since his arrival and his passing game has gained some plaudits this season. Arsenal and Everton are also interested in the £8 million rated Irish international, but Liverpool have already reportedly had two offers for the midfielder rejected. If Wigan do go down this season, the Reds might be able to get their man and that too for a reasonable fee.
Tom Ince (Blackpool | Winger)
Liverpool have been interested in their youth academy graduate since the start of the season and even though nothing ever materialized, it seems Tom Ince is destined to play in the Premier League in the future and, in all likelihood, for the Reds. The Blackpool winger has taken the Championship by storm and has already netted 17 goals this season in 29 appearances. The 21-year-old was valued around £7 million in January, but expect his value to rise a lot in the summer following Wilfried Zaha’s big money move to Manchester United and his impressive performances for the Under-21s.
