Timo Werner is a fairly obvious target in Jurgen Klopp’s search for a new forward.
He’s quick, a lethal finisher and can play on the left, behind the striker or upfront. At just 24-years-old, he’s not yet hit his prime, but his statistics are frankly silly.
With 21 goals and seven assists in 24 Bundesliga matches, he’s one of the most productive forwards on the planet. However, with the German poacher linked to clubs like Barcelona and Bayern Munich, what if an alternative is needed?
Liverpool will be looking for a number of strict criteria in any new forward coming into Jurgen Klopp’s side. Whoever they are they need to be quick, physically robust, versatile and calm in front of goal.
Another thing they need to be is not stupidly expensive, so names like Kylian Mbappe and Jadon Sancho are out.
Serge Gnabry
Another German sure to be on Jurgen Klopp’s list is Bayern Munich’s 24-year-old attacker, Serge Gnabry. He’s played on both wings, in attacking midfield and as a striker this season, so versatility is not a problem. His production, while not on Werner’s level is impressive, with 39 goals and assists for club and country in 2019/20.
He’d be able to fit into the Merseysiders’ attack seamlessly, bringing the blend of pace and productivity Klopp craves in his forwards.
Another potential factor is if Werner does join the Bavarians, Gnabry could be persuaded to leave the club in search of more regular football.
Milot Rashica
Milot Rashica has been nothing short of spectacular for Werder Bremen this season. The 23-year-old’s talents were perfectly summarised by his goal against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena.
A quick turn into space, lightning speed to get away from Jerome Boateng, before unleashing a searing right-footed strike past Manuel Neuer to get the goal.
His production is not on the levels of Gnabry or Werner, but it’s still notable, with seven goals and four assists in 20 Bundesliga games. He, like Gnabry is also versatile, having played on both wings, as a number 10 and as a striker.
A final plus point for the Kosovan is his relative lack of experience at the top level of the game.
This means he may be more willing to take his time and to earn his place in the team ahead of Liverpool’s usual front three.
Donyell Malen
A younger prospect than the others, Donyell Malen is the latest in a long line of impressive forwards to play for PSV Eindhoven.
The Dutchman has scored 14 goals in 16 appearances for PSV, as well as his first goal for his national team.
He also has at least some experience of English football, having spent time in Arsenal’s academy system.
The young forward has played primarily as a striker this season but has experience playing out wide as well.
His age will also count for him at 21-years-old, giving him plenty of time to develop.
The striker who does come in will have to be prepared to compete with one of the most feared attacks on the planet.
However, with Jurgen Klopp and Michael Edwards’ record in the market, you can be confident they’ll make the right choice.
