Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is considering a move for Hoffenheim youngster Christoph Baumgartner as a replacement for Georginio Wijnaldum.
Kicker, who cover English claims of interest, and add ‘assessments from those familiar with the situation’ have backed it up.
The Reds are on the hunt for a new midfielder after losing Wijnaldum, who elected to run down his contract and move to Paris Saint Germain on a free transfer.
His departure has left a major hole that will need to be filled, and several midfielders have subsequently been linked with moves to Liverpool this summer.
The newspaper explains the 21-year-old would not be a direct replacement for the Dutchman as he ‘lacks class and experience’ and is more of an attacking player.
They describe him as a ‘mischief maker’ while Wijnaldum is more of a deep-lying number eight.
Nevertheless, he is ‘held in high esteem’ in England, particularly at Liverpool, who are stepping up their efforts to find Wijnaldum’s replacement.
The big issue the Reds will have to overcome is the fact Baumgartner only extended his deal until 2025 back in March.
It can be assumed that included a release clause, although there is no confirmation that it does, and even if it doesn’t, Hoffenheim are are likely to demand more than the €32m they paid to sign him in 2019.
Kicker’s belief is that a transfer fee would be ‘freely negotiable’ but would not be a bargain price even for Liverpool.
If they are to get serious and make their move, though, ‘anything is possible’ as Hoffenheim are ‘dependant’ on big sales to keep things ticking along nicely.
