Liverpool Opinion: Two Alberto Moreno replacements Klopp should consider

According to a report from the Liverpool ECHO, Liverpool outcast Alberto Moreno flew to Rome to potentially sign a pre-contract agreement with Lazio.

The Spaniard, 26, joined the Reds from Sevilla in the summer of 2014. But he has never lived up to expectations at Anfield. Moreno has been long out of favour in Jurgen Klopp’s eyes, featuring just twice in the league this season during the team’s title bid. The left-back is in the final few months of his contract which he signed back in the summer of 2014.

Andrew Robertson is now Liverpool’s first choice left-back, and unless the Scot suffers an injury, it is unlikely that Moreno will ever force his way back into Klopp’s plans. In fact, Klopp prefers James Milner to fill in at left-back when Robertson is unavailable for selection due to any circumstances.

As things stand, it’s important for Moreno to move away from Anfield in order to resurrect his stalled career. The Spaniard’s departure this summer would leave the Reds with only a specialized left-back in Robertson. Hence, it’s important for Klopp and co. to replace Moreno ahead of the next season.

That being said, here are two replacements for Moreno Liverpool should consider when the transfer window re-opens.

1. Philipp Max (Augsburg)

One of the Bundesliga’s most exciting full-backs, Philipp Max has been really good for Augsburg this season. He has scored twice and assisted seven times in 27 league appearances thus far in the campaign.

Predominantly a left-back, Max can also play in midfield and in an advanced role on the left. He is pacey, agile and energetic and works really hard for the team.

The German is a wonderful crosser of the ball and provides a real threat from set-pieces. He isn’t a slouch when it comes to defending as Max uses his interception skills and positional awareness to halt opposition’s attacks.

In every sense, Max would be an upgrade on Moreno and a perfect fit for Klopp’s high-intense football.

2. Nicolas Tagliafico (Ajax)

Nicolas Tagliafico was a part of the wonderful night at the Santiago Bernabeu when Ajax knocked the Champions League holders Real Madrid in the round of 16 earlier this month.

The Argentine, 26, joined Ajax in January 2018 from Independiente and has quickly become a crucial cog of the team’s defensive set up. He is one of the first names on Erik Ten Haag’s team sheet, impressing with his all-action displays this season.

Tagliafico is a complete full-back that possesses strong defensive qualities as well as loves to get forward and contribute to the team’s attacks. He is a classy operator of the ball and can pick the right pass with a 30-yard diagonal from his position.

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With Moreno set to depart, Tagliafico could be ideal for Liverpool to compete with Robertson for the left-back spot from next season.