According to recent reports, Liverpool are closing in on a £20 million move to Merseyside, but Jürgen Klopp dismisses the claims, writes Sam May.
The 23-year old, attacking midfielder has been heavily linked with a move to the Reds, since the arrival of Klopp in October.
It seems a move is likely, although no deal is complete until the player has signed on the dotted line. This could all slot into place though, as Götze’s prospects at Bayern Munich don’t look great, his relationship with, and understanding of Klopp, and the desire to resurrect his career could all point to one thing – that signature on an LFC contract.
Klopp said in his recent press conference: “It shouldn’t surprise you that we don’t talk about any names,” he said. “We can talk about [Joel] Matip and [Marko] Grujic, because these are fixed deals. “The problem is, you don’t know these players- ah wait, you know Matip!
“Seriously, I never comment on any rumours. I’m happy for Mario that he played such a good game [for Germany v Italy] after being out for a long time with an injury. In addition to that, there is nothing more to say.”
The Daily Express’ Paul Joyce, has previously said: Götze is “ready to move to Liverpool,” after privately indicating “he wants to play again for Klopp.”
The fact he is available for between £15-£20 million is a real bonus and seen as a bargain buy. Klopp clearly has a blueprint for the Reds, which he is keeping close to his chest. However, the pursuit of Götze is maybe giving a little bit of that blue print strategy away.
Kop boss Klopp, is driven, focussed and committed to bring the glory days back to Anfield and in his playing staff, he expects exactly the same. There are many more twists and potential changes of personal, both in and out before he has the blueprint set.
The 2014 World Cup winner would join 19-year old midfielder Marko Grujic and 24-year old, central defender Joel Matip on Merseyside this summer.His arrival would see Liverpool line-up with Philippe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino and Daniel Sturridge in a very strong and skillful spearhead.
Unlike some recent reports, which have suggested that Milner and Lallana will drop down the pecking order, 26-year old Lallana being versatile, could easily shift to the left side of midfield.
Meanwhile, The Times Merseyside Football Correspondent, Tony Barrett previously said in a recent column:
“Mario Götze is ready to sever his ties with Bayern Munich at the end of this season having set his heart on a summer move to Liverpool where he would be reunited with Jürgen Klopp, who managed him at Borussia Dortmund,” Barrett claimed.
“In what would be a significant statement of intent by Klopp as he looks to re-establish Liverpool among European football’s elite, the Merseyside club are hopeful of signing the German World Cup winner. Götze is expected to cost around £20 million as he is due to enter the final year of his contract in June.”
Described as one of the best attacking talents Germany has ever had by Bayern Munich sporting director Matthias Sammer, his career statistics back it up. Making 221 appearances to date, he has scored 65 goals and contributed to 66 assists, one in 1.68 games on average.
His creativity, but movement off the ball is a key part of his game. If Liverpool do manage to lure the natural and talented player, it would mark a new era. The Reds’ haven’t managed to pull in big names apart from Alonso, Mascherano, Torres and Suarez. The fact they don’t have Champions League football next year, suggests Klopp is a huge magnet who can attract top players regardless.
Memmingen playmaker, Götze, who can operate as a number 10 or second striker, has four Bundesliga titles to his name and a Champions League runners-up medal. He will know doubt want to add to this in a Liverpool shirt.
Follow Sam on Twitter @Sam95May
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