LFC legend John Aldridge wants Liverpool to replace Thiago Alcantara next summer

Writing in his column for Liverpool Echo (h/t The Express), Liverpool legend John Aldridge has called upon the club to replace Spanish international Thiago Alcantara in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The veteran ace joined the Reds from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2020 and has gone on to make 97 appearances for the club, scoring thrice and assisting six more. A difference maker in the middle of the park, the 32-year-old bleeds world-class performances more often than not.

However, he has struggled with injuries, making himself a liability to the Reds on several occasions. While his ability on the ball is unquestionable, the fact that he has missed 60 games thanks to injuries in a little less than three seasons is concerning.

Liverpool are set for a summer rebuild at the end of the campaign with several players leaving and ageing. Aldridge believes Thiago should be added to the former’s list and replaced by a young, more athletic player.

“Klopp could look to move him on to bring someone younger in and, given the way we work as a club, we have to bring money in somehow. As good as Thiago is, you need players who are fit all the time, young and get about the pitch.”

While Thiago is a game changer, it is unlikely to help us if he is not available to take to the field. Despite Trent Alexander-Arnold and Curtis Jones offering hope, the Reds need at least three new midfield additions in the summer.

The Spaniard has a year to go on his current deal and there is no talk of an extension being penned just yet. Liverpool could sell him this summer to recoup what they can of the transfer fee while also freeing up £200,000 per week in wages.

However, one argument in Thiago’s favour is his lack of depreciation in terms of quality. The likes of Jordan Henderson have regressed while the Spaniard continues to exude class whenever he takes to the field. While bringing in a younger alternative is sound logic, it will be difficult to find someone who has the same technical prowess as the Spoanmiah maestro.

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Thiago is Liverpool’s third best-paid player and takes up a reasonable chunk of our wage bill despite not playing very often. However, given his success and experience, there are few better players to take on James Milner’s mantle heading into the 2023/24 season.

The Spaniard could help aid Stefan Bajcetic’s development and help the youngster improve his game in a structured manner. Liverpool are better off retaining Thiago at least for another season or two.