Despite the fact that Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has just a year left on his contract, most fans dont appear to be concerned. He’s the epitome of a one club man and will continue to be an important player until the end of his career.
Whether he’ll be a part of a truly effective midfield remains to be seen. Whilst there have been weaknesses throughout Liverpool’s squad this season, the lack of spark and creativity in the the midfield has been a key contributing factor to the club’s failures this season.
Joe Allen arrived at the club in a storm of positivity, but most of this good feeling had now evaporated. He’s an extremely erratic footballer, who can pull off a world-class pass one moment and then misplace a simple pass the next.
The Reds need an upgrade in this department. This brings me to The Mirror‘s claim that Liverpool are looking to grant Gerrard a new two-year deal, whilst reuniting him with his old midfield buddy, Xabi Alonso.
I’m sure these rumours have Liverpool fans frothing at the mouth. Since Alonso left the club, too much responsibility has been placed on Gerrard. Should Brendan Rodgers pull off this proposed move, the tables will turn. Liverpool will once again have a world-class midfield. A midfield that would lack pace, but wouldn’t lack quality.
The passing range of both Alonso and Gerrard is second to none and to have both players in a single midfield would be a sight to behold.
The Mirror claim that Alonso would set the Reds back £8.5m. This price is fair given his age, but doesn’t account for his all round ability. Xabi Alonso has never exactly been a player who has relied on his pace. He relies on his ability to move the ball about quickly and release other players. This aspect of his game is unlikely to leave him for another half-decade or so.
Yes, he’s 31-years-old, but he’s still a long distance away from the end of his career. What’s more, if he’s playing alongside the evergreen Steven Gerrard, he’ll be protected and will be able to play to his strengths.
With all that in mind, £8.5m is a fantastic price for a world-class player. Brendan Rodgers would be foolish to turn his nose up at this one.
What’s your take? Should Liverpool re-tread old ground and snap up Real Madrid’s Xabi Alonso?
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Bring him Rodger