Liverpool have flexible, Euro 2020 attacker lined up for a move
Liverpool have a Hoffenheim midfielder in their sights as they look for a replacement for Gini Wijnaldum, claims a report.
Wijnaldum confirmed his free-transfer move to Paris Saint-Germain earlier this month. The classy midfielder claimed things “happened behind the scenes” at Anfield and promised to reveal all after Euro 2020.
It seems Liverpool were well aware that Wijnaldum would not be staying on Merseyside and they have had their feelers out for a replacement.
One of those options, according to the Liverpool Echo is Austria international Christoph Baumgartner.
The 21-year-old faced England earlier this month in a Euro 2020 warm-up game and he played for Austria in their opening Euro 2020 win over North Macedonia.
The attacking midfielder played further forward in the 3-1 win and he could see his value rise significantly with some good showings at Euro 2020.
The Sun claimed that Manchester United were tracking the Austrian in January.
Baumgartner’s exit fee was then £16million. However, even then the report claimed his recent form had seen that price skyrocket. So an impressive Euro 2020 and a contract running until 2023 will only see his value go one way.
One thing is sure he is certainly not a like for like replacement for Wijnaldum. He does however offer more of an attacking threat and can play as an attacking midfielder, false nine and a No. 1o.
Give our social media channels a follow – we’re on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Baumgartner profile
“(He) is an extremely talented player with strong technical skills and a good sense for space in attack,” said Hoffenheim sporting director Alexander Rosen earlier this year.
“As a result, he always develops solutions in tight game situations and is also dangerous around goal.”
While, Alfred Schreuder, the man who replaced Hoffenheim coach Julian Nagelsmann is a huge fan of the player.
“Baumi does the work in behind opposing defences very well,” he said.
“In the beginning, the last punch was often missing, but it’s since become more and more successful for him. We’ve always seen his potential.”
Liverpool will have a number of targets on their list this summer. Leicester midfielder Youri Tielemans has been linked recently, but his standing is such that the Reds would have to pay through the nose for the 24-year-old.
Yves Bissouma of Brighton is another player understood to be interesting Michael Edwards.
Florian Neuhaus is also an option. A report from Spain has suggested that Liverpool are closing in on Borussia Monchengladbach star Neuhaus.
READ MORE: Klopp tells Liverpool man to forget recent struggles, with impactful new role planned
The post Liverpool have flexible, Euro 2020 attacker lined up for a move appeared first on TEAMtalk.