Liverpool have looked like champions elect for much of the Premier League season and, barring any coronavirus interference, will be officially awarded a first title in 30 years at some point.
But Jurgen Klopp is still yet to win a domestic trophy and will be keen to reclaim the Champions League.
Excellent recruitment, led by sporting director Michael Edwards, has been the cornerstone of Liverpool’s rise in recent times and will no doubt be called upon again.
The Reds opted for continuity over change last summer with no major new faces coming in – it is unlikely that will be the case again come this summer.
This Liverpool side has very few flaws, but the German is very reliant on a cluster of players who tend to start the majority of games.
That has inevitably led to suggestions certain players could quit the Reds in an effort to further their careers elsewhere.
We take a look at the players who may be set for pastures new in a couple of months…
(Image: Action Images via Reuters)
Divock Origi
The Belgian only signed a new contract in the summer but could still depart this summer having failed to force his way into the starting XI regularly enough.
Origi scored several big goals towards the end of last season but is not at the same level as Mo Salah, Sadio Mane or Roberto Firmino.
Even in recent cameos off the bench he has struggled to influence things like he may have wanted to.
Liverpool have been wise in the market recently and been able to get full value for the players they let go.
With so long to run on his current deal Origi would still command a decent fee which could be reinvested and may be an option Edwards looks to explore.
(Image: Action Images via Reuters)
Dejan Lovren
The defender was linked with an exit last summer but remained on Merseyside.
He is one of four centre-halves vying for two positions, which effectively is three battling for the one alongside Virgil van Dijk.
Joe Gomez has continued to improve alongside the Dutchman and appears to be Klopp’s favourite option when fit.
Even Joel Matip would appear to be slightly above the Croatian in the pecking order.
Lovren has never doubted his ability and should Liverpool receive an offer they deem acceptable it is more than feasible he will move on.
(Image: Getty Images)
Xherdan Shaqiri
The forward’s exit does have a sense of inevitability about it.
He will always be remembered at Anfield for his two-goal performance against Manchester United which effectively ended Jose Mourinho’s tenure.
But beyond that he has not been able to really challenge the established front three.
Even from the bench he is behind Origi in Klopp’s mind leaving minutes at a premium for the Swiss international.
(Image: Getty Images)
Naby Keita
The midfielder’s future hangs in the balance, Jurgen Klopp will be desperate to make the move work for all parties.
It is fair to say that when Keita was signed for an initial £52.75m there was plenty of anticipation, but there are doubts as to whether he has justified his fee.
Liverpool’s midfield is the most competitive area of the squad and the Guinean has been unable to establish himself in the starting XI.
Keita was never going to be a regular goal getter but his combative style is not something the Reds lack.
Put simply, were Liverpool to play in the Champions League final tomorrow you would be surprised if he started.
