Even as Liverpool are tracking Fulham defender Ryan Sessegnon, the club to continue to be linked with several defenders – especially left backs. Manager Jurgen Klopp has clearly identified the left back is a position that needs significant strengthening in the summer. After learning about Alberto Moreno’s inability to defend only on the opening day of the season, manager Klopp has resorted to using James Milner as the club’s first choice left-back. As a midfielder by trade, Milner has not exactly been the perfect option in this regard but he has been able to do the job.
One of the latest players to be linked with a move to Anfield is Theo Hernandez. The 19-year-old plays for Deportivo Alaves – on loan from Atletico Madrid – and he has caught the attention of Jurgen Klopp several months ago. Hernandez is being lined up as a potential replacement for James Milner, as there is still the possibility of Liverpool failing to sign Sessegnon from Fulham. Furthermore, the Fulham defender is only 16 and may not be ready for all of the Premier league action straight away, despite being part of the Championship outfit this season.
A potential obstacle towards signing Hernandez could be the player’s £20 million release clause, although it is likely that Atletico Madrid may be interested in the possibility of negotiating a higher transfer fee. Hernandez has featured in 24 league matches this season and he has contributed four assists. He was signed from Atletico Madrid in the summer on a loan deal which does not expire until the summer. The player has a contract with Atletico Madrid until the summer of 2021. Hence, it is likely that the Spanish outfit will demand a substantial transfer fee in order to sell the youngster.
Hernandez has been unable to get first team action at Atletico Madrid due to the presence of Filipe Luís. With the former Chelsea defender still going strong at the Vicente Calderon, it is highly unlikely that Hernandez will be able to get first team opportunities straightaway.
Besides Hernandez, it has also been rumoured that Liverpool are keen on making a move for Inter Milan midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia. The 24-year-old has been made as the top transfer target for Liverpool and Tottenham. Both clubs have moved ahead of Chelsea in the race for the midfielder, who is expected to cost around £ 25 million. The defensive midfielder will be a great option to replace Lucas Leiva, who was linked with an exit even in the summer.
