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Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy believes the Reds should sign either West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice or Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips this summer. Murphy's advice came in the wake of the Reds' 1-0 defeat to Real Madrid in the final of the Champions League on Saturday, May 28.
Rice has developed into one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League in recent years. He helped his side finish seventh in the Premier League and lead them to the semi-finals of the Europa League.
Kalvin Phillips enjoyed an incredible 2020-21 campaign, but his involvement last season was limited due to a hamstring injury that ruled him out of action for four months. The 26-year-old was, however, highly impressive for England at Euro 2020 last summer. Murphy believes the Merseysiders must look to improve their midfield by signing either Rice or Phillips this summer.
"I think I would go all in for Rice or Phillips. English, hungry, someone you know is going to be around for a long time, gets in, can come in, hits the ground running," Murphy told TalkSport.
Liverpool could be in the market for a couple of midfielders this summer as the likes of Jordan Henderson, Thiago Alcantara, and James Milner are in their thirties. The Merseyside club also lack adequate cover or competition for defensive midfielder Fabinho.
Real Madrid did not create as many chances as the Reds did but they won most of their midfield battles due to which they were able to pick up the much coveted trophy. The likes of Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric outplayed their midfield counterparts in the match.
Liverpool could make a move for Kalvin Phillips this summer
According to 90min, Liverpool have expressed an interest in Kalvin Phillips. The England international's aggression, tenacity, passing ability, and physical presence make him the ideal transfer target for Jurgen Klopp.
Phillips is yet to decide his future with the Whites. Amongst other clubs like Newcastle United, Manchester United and Aston Villa, Liverpool are keeping a close watch on the midfielder's situation at Leeds.
The Reds won the FA Cup and EFL Cup this season, finished second in the Premier League, and reached the final of the Champions League. Playing for a one of the top clubs in Europe would be on top of Phillips' wishlist in his buddying career.
