Markus Babbel and Stephane Henchoz, both once of Liverpool, have hailed Borussia Dortmund defender Manuel Akanji, with the latter believing he’s good enough to star for the Reds.
Akanji has recently been starring for Switzerland during the international break, playing a key role in the win over Greece and the 0-0 draw with European Champions Italy.
Following the latter, Italy legend Giorgio Chiellini came out to praise the defender publicly, suggesting that he needs to make a step up in terms of club and that he would be an ideal replacement for himself when he retires at Juventus.
That has predictably led to a slew of rumours about a potential move, particularly as the 26-year-old will be entering the final year of his contract next summer.
And former Liverpool duo Babbel and Henchoz have no doubts about his qualities, with the latter even putting Jurgen Klopp’s team on the list of ideal locations.
“Akanji one for Juve? Yes,” Babbel told Blick.
“Whether Juve, Real, Barcelona or Bayern – Akanji can choose. A Varane at Real, for example, was no better than him.
“Akanji is the prime example of the modern centre-back: fast, strong in two fights, great in opening up the game. He just has to stop the careless mistakes, then Chiellini will be right.
“I’m not surprised by what Chiellini said,” added Henchoz.
“Already against France, everyone was talking about world champion Varane and PSG player Kimpembe, but the best was Akanji.
“He just doesn’t have the name internationally yet because he only plays at Dortmund. He is perhaps the only Swiss who can play in the top 10 one day.
“Liverpool, Bayern, Manchester City or United, Barcelona, Real – I wouldn’t put it past him; he has all the qualities.”
