Following their Premier League opener at Craven Cottage, Liverpool are dealt another blow to their midfield with Thiago set to be sidelined for six weeks.

The Spaniard was forced off in the second half with a hamstring injury as Jurgen Klopp’s side clawed back a 2-2 draw against Fulham.

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Liverpool are already without Curtis Jones, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita, despite the Guinean International set to return to first team training this week.

Thiago underwent a scan that proved the injury is much worse than first thought, and with Liverpool’s midfield already lacking options, this makes matters a whole lot worse.

Is it time to delve into the transfer market? Jurgen Klopp was happy with his squad as the new season beckoned highlighting no more signings were necessary. But with injuries accumulating in recent weeks, could a new face be a wise move?

Potential midfielder options

Jude Bellingham

It’s beyond clear that Jurgen Klopp is a huge admirer of Jude Bellingham. Liverpool have made contact with Borussia Dortmund and Bellingham’s representatives in recent weeks but were informed the German side will not sell the starlet this summer.

If a move for the teenager were to happen, Liverpool would have to battle with some of Europe’s biggest clubs for Bellingham’s signature in 2023.

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Matheus Nunes

Matheus Nunes has certainly caught the eye of many as he has enjoyed an impressive season at Sporting Lisbon.

The 23-year-old was eulogized massively by Manchester City Manager, Pep Guardiola. 

Guardiola: “I would say that Matheus Nunes is one of the best players in the world today.”

The Portuguese international has the ability to carry the ball and make progressive runs, using a combination of speed and strength. Nunes also possesses a good anticipation and reading of the game, which allows him to make interceptions and challenges.

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Marcelo Brozovic

Another versatile and very gifted footballer. Brozovic, who is known to play as a deep-lying playmaker can also be a box-to-box midfielder as his stamina, runs and passing ability have proven to be some of his greatest strengths.

The Croatian international played a huge part in Inter Milan’s title winning season under Antonio Conte last year. 

Conte described the 29-year-old as “irreplaceable” when Newcastle were looking for the Croatian’s signature last season.

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Nicolo Barella

Another integral part of Inter Milan’s title winning side and Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph. Nicolo Barella ticks all the boxes for a complete midfielder.

Just like the names above, an incredibly gifted footballer who’s willing to do the dirty work. 

The Italian recorded the second most assists (9) in a Serie A season, during the Nerazzurri’s quest to reach the pinnacle of Italian Football. 

Ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League tie with Inter Milan last season, Jurgen Klopp highlighted the brilliance of Barella and expressed his relief that the 25-year-old was sidelined for Inter’s trip to Merseyside.

Klopp: “He’s a really good player and I like him a lot. He has all the qualities you want from a midfielder, he’s aggressive, he’s technical and he can run for ages!”.

Barella has seemed to be admired by Liverpool for years, will a move finally happen?

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