Liverpool gets free transfer opportunity to sign winger adored by Jurgen Klopp
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Liverpool was linked with Julian Brandt back in 2017 before ultimately signing Mohamed Salah instead – and the Reds could now pursue the German forward on a free transfer, nine years on from their initial interestJurgen Klopp managed Liverpool between 2015 and 2024(Image: Getty Images)Liverpool's decision to sign Mohamed Salah over Julian Brandt stands as arguably the most defining sliding doors moment in the club's recent history.Back in the summer of 2017, then-manager Jurgen Klopp was on the hunt for a sharp-shooting winger to complete a formidable front three alongside Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane. It is understood that Klopp had his eye on German prospect Brandt, who was 21 at the time, as a potential Anfield recruit.On paper, he seemed a natural fit for Liverpool, having chalked up 12 goal contributions across 40 appearances for Bayer Leverkusen.
Brandt eventually left Leverkusen, joining Klopp's former club Borussia Dortmund in 2019.Now aged 30, the German is set to leave the Black and Yellows after seven seasons, during which he netted 57 times in 307 appearances, and is currently available on a free transfer. Quite possibly.Brandt can function across the forward line, chiefly operating in an advanced midfield position, but he can also play on either flank — a versatility Liverpool are said to be pursuing this season as Andoni Iraola seeks to rebuild his side's attacking options.Julian Brandt is a free agent(Image: Getty Images)He also offers a substantial goalscoring threat.
Brandt's injury history is promising, with the versatile forward having been absent for just three matches for Dortmund last season and only five the year prior.He's also familiar with high-pressure environments. I have to straighten things out in Leverkusen."He stayed true to his word and committed for a further two seasons at the Bayer Arena.There is also the matter of Brandt being available on a free transfer, and in a climate where the Reds are willing to spend upwards of $100 million on the likes of RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande and PSG's Bradley Barcola, this could well be considered a no-brainer.Klopp has played down suggestions that he pushed for Brandt over Salah in previous years, yet did concede that he had spoken to the forward.