Should Liverpool retain or let go of players with contracts set to expire?

Under the guidance of Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool has experienced a promising beginning to their reconstruction. Topping the Premier League standings, discussions about a potential pursuit of another quadruple are gaining momentum.

Liverpool is envisioning a promising future, focusing on a fresh core of young talents, and bidding farewell to their older generation in recent transfer windows. As the contracts of three senior players at Anfield approach expiration by the end of the 2023/24 season, what choices should Liverpool make?

Thiago Alcantara

Let’s be honest – how often this season have you caught yourself thinking, ‘Oh right, Thiago Alcantara is still part of Liverpool’? The midfielder has been absent throughout the entire campaign due to a hip injury, but it’s not like Klopp and the team have notably felt his absence.

A dynamic new generation of midfielders is emerging in Merseyside, making Thiago’s continued presence seem unnecessary, especially given his inconsistent fitness record, which might not align well with Klopp’s style. On Thursday, Kool Media reported the possibility of Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq, led by Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, showing interest in targeting Thiago during the upcoming summer transfer window.

Verdict: RELEASE

Joel Matip

Joel Matip’s season has been prematurely concluded due to an ACL injury, raising the possibility that he might have played his last match for Liverpool.

However, retaining the Cameroonian for at least another year holds value. Ibrahima Konate’s frequent injury concerns and Liverpool’s rumored interest in several young center-backs suggest that having Matip around, even in a reduced capacity, could be beneficial.

Similar to Thiago, Matip is reportedly attracting interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia. Nonetheless, he could find a comfortable role at Anfield, contributing to Liverpool’s development of the next formidable defender, whoever that may be.

Verdict: KEEP

Adrian

Given the uncertainty surrounding the future of backup goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, the decision regarding allowing Adrian’s Liverpool contract to naturally expire is not a straightforward one.

In every club, having an experienced figure as the deputy to the deputy goalkeeper, akin to a lovable and experienced uncle with positive vibes, has become somewhat of a tradition in modern football.

At 37 years old, the decision may ultimately rest with Adrian himself. The key question is whether he wishes to continue his career or opt for retirement. It could be a reasonable choice for him to stay on for another year, especially if Liverpool needs to venture into the transfer market for a new backup to Alisson.

Verdict: KEEP