Pundit backs Man Utd target to become ‘ever-present’ at Liverpool if they can win transfer battle

Joe Williams
Liverpool target Frenkie de Jong dictates play

Frenkie de Jong would suit playing for Liverpool next season if they beat Man Utd in the battle for his signature, according to former Arsenal striker Kevin Campbell.

The Reds looked like they had completed their transfer business early in the summer window before making a deadline day move for Juventus midfielder Arthur.

The Brazilian, who has already picked up an injury, joined Liverpool on loan until the end of the season but reports suggest that Jurgen Klopp will look for a longer term solution.

Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham has been linked while ESPN have claimed that – along with Chelsea and Man Utd – Liverpool are ‘ready to lead the race’ for De Jong.

The report from just over a week ago insist that Liverpool ‘have made contact with De Jong’s representatives’ ahead of a possible summer transfer.

And Campbell reckons the Netherlands international would fit perfectly into Klopp’s side, while De Jong would also be a good addition at Man Utd.

Campbell told Football Insider: “De Jong is a brilliant player. If he becomes available, there will be a lot of top clubs after him.

“I could see him operating in the Liverpool midfield alongside Thiago, Fabinho or [Jordan] Henderson. He is so versatile. He has even played centre-half in Spain.

“Is he a Liverpool type of player? I think he is. He can do that kind of job. He could be an ever-present.

“I’m sure Man United would still be interested though. Erik ten Hag is a big fan. Imagine De Jong alongside Casemiro.”

And his fellow Football Insider pundit and former Premier League striker, Noel Whelan, reckons the Reds would benefit from some “fresh blood and fresh legs” in their midfield.

When asked if De Jong could solve some of Klopp’s midfield headaches at Liverpool, Whelan added: “Yeah, I think so.

“They’re a bit of a Jekyll and Hyde team at the moment. One good game followed by one poor game.

“It’s a real head-scratcher for Jurgen Klopp to have this inconsistency in performances constantly.

“We know they’re an ageing side in midfield. They need fresh blood and fresh legs.

“Frenkie de Jong would probably thrive in this Liverpool side. I think he’d rather go to Liverpool than Man United, even though Man United have had the better start.

“This Liverpool side would compliment him much more. If you put him in alongside Thiago, there’s a lot of experience.”

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