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Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers made changes to his playing squad during the recent summer transfer window and was backed by the board.

Central midfielder Matt O’Riley was sold to Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion and the Hoops reacted by splashing out a club-record fee of £11m on Augsburg dynamo Arne Engels.

The Northern Irish head coach also brought in Paulo Bernardo, Adam Idah, Luke McCowan, Viljami Sinisalo, Auston Trusty, and Kasper Schmeichel on permanent deals, along with Alex Valle on a season-long loan from Barcelona.

Celtic reportedly paid a fee of £8.5m, with a potential £1.5m in add-ons on top of that, to sign Idah on a permanent basis from Norwich City, after his loan spell at Parkhead last term.

The Ireland international scored eight goals in 15 appearances in the Scottish Premiership during the second half of last season, and has scored four goals in his last five games for the club in the current campaign.

His arrival in a £9.5m deal from the Canaries in the summer transfer window meant that Rodgers had him and Kyogo Furuhashi as his two first-choice centre-forward options, in a team that plays with one striker.

This left Hyeon-gyu Oh in a difficult place, sitting third in the pecking order at Parkhead, and he completed a move to Genk on a permanent deal.

Hyeon-gyu Oh's Celtic career

In January of last year, Ange Postecoglou swooped to sign the South Korea international from Suwon Bluewings for a reported fee of £2.5m to bolster his attacking options, shortly before Giorgos Giakoumakis departed for Atalanta United.

The promising youngster had scored 14 goals in 53 appearances for the K League 1 outfit, 11 of which had come in his 32 league outings during the 2022 campaign.

Oh enjoyed a promising start to life at Parkhead in the second half of that season, with seven goals in all competitions for the Australian head coach, including six goals in 16 matches in the Premiership.

Rodgers then arrvied to replace Postecoglou in the summer of 2023 and the South Korean youngster failed to break into the team on a regular basis.

He made 20 appearances and only started three times in the league for the Northern Irish head coach during the 2023/24 campaign, with Idah arriving to restrict his game time in January.

Appearances

20

Goals

5

Big chances missed

5

Big chances created

0

Assists

0

As you can see in the table above, Oh did manage to score five goals in his limited minutes on the pitch for the Hoops, but failed to offer any creativity for his teammates.

Despite his struggles for game time at Parkhead, the Scottish giants raked in a £2m profit for him in the summer just gone as Genk swooped in to pay a reported fee of £4.5m.

Things could have been very different for Celtic, though, if they had landed one of their alternative centre-forward targets during the January transfer window in 2023 – Antoine Semenyo.

Celtic's interest in Antoine Semenyo

Ahead of that window, the Bristol Post reported that Celtic and Rangers had both scouted the Bristol City forward ‘extensively’ ahead of a possible move for the young attacker.

One that got away

The transfers that nearly happened but never did. This article is part of Football FanCast's One That Got Away series.

The Ghana international’s contract with the English Championship club was due to expire at the end of the season and that meant that they had to cash in then or they risked losing him for nothing in the summer.

That seemingly alerted the two Scottish giants to his potential availability but they were not the only teams interested in snapping up for the versatile attacker.

It was claimed that Premier League side Crystal Palace and Turkish outfit Fenerbahce were also keen on signing Semenyo ahead of the second half of the season.

In the end, however, none of those four clubs were able to win the race for the Bristol City striker. Instead, Premier League team Bournemouth splashed out a whopping fee of £9m, plus a potential £1.5m in add-ons on top of that, to secure his services on the 28th January.

It is not significantly more than the fee Celtic paid for Idah this year and it is a deal that the Hoops may now regret missing out on, given his form since making the move to the top-flight.

How much Antoine Semenyo is worth now

At the time of writing (09/10/2024), Transfermarkt has his current market value at €20m (£16.7m) and this shows that the Cherries were right to invest a large sum in his potential.

The initial fee of £9m that they paid Bristol City for his services currently looks like a bargain, given his market value, form, and the plaudits he is getting.

As you can hear in the clip above, pundit Jamie Redknapp believes that Bournemouth have unearthed an “absolute star” who is “worth a fortune” at this moment in time.

Semenyo did struggle in his first five months at the Vitality Stadium, however, with a return of one goal and zero assists in his first 11 Premier League outings.

The 24-year-old attacker, who can play through the middle or out wide as a winger, then found his feet and caught the eye with his contributions in his first full season in the top-flight.

Starts

25

xG

4.64

Goals

8

Big chances created

6

Assists

2

As you can see in the table, Semenyo performed incredibly well against his xG tally, outscoring it by over three goals, and was unfortunate to end the season with two assists, from six ‘big chances’ created for his teammates.

The Ghana international has also made a strong start to the current campaign in the Premier League, with a return of three goals and two ‘big chances’ created in seven outings for the Cherries.

This means that the ex-Celtic target has recorded 11 goals and eight ‘big chances’ created in the league since the start of last season, which shows that he is more than capable at producing regular quality at that level.

Rodgers must cash in on Celtic midfielder who's played less than Palma

The Hoops do not appear to have struck gold with this particular signing.

2 ByDan Emery Oct 8, 2024

Therefore, Semenyo is one that got away for the Hoops as they missed out on a high potential Premier League star in the making and signed Oh, who failed to make a name for himself in Glasgow.

Amid yet another attempt to rebuild themselves into a side capable of finishing inside the Premier League’s top four, Chelsea could lose yet another star man to Real Madrid in a repeat of Antonio Rudiger’s 2022 exit.

Chelsea transfer news

It’s a rare day when the Blues are not dominating the headlines on the transfer front, with Todd Boehly far from afraid to splash the cash even to no avail thus far. So far this season, it has once again been a case of two steps forward and one step back with an impressive victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers sandwiched in between defeat against Manchester City and a frustrating draw against Crystal Palace.

Lukaku arrived instead: Tuchel wanted Chelsea to sign star now worth £152m

It’s safe to say the club made a huge error in not securing a move for the talent.

ByEthan Lamb Sep 18, 2024

Those at Stamford Bridge did at least get back to winning ways last time out, however, defeating Bournemouth late on courtesy of Christopher Nkunku’s strike from the bench.

Away from the action on the pitch, meanwhile, the London giants could be about to do business with European champions Real Madrid once again, but not for a deal that they’ll want to sanction. According to reports, Real Madrid now have Reece James among their top targets and are plotting a move to sign the right-back in 2025 if he finds a solution for his injury problems.

It’s in Madrid that James would be reunited with Rudiger, having won the Champions League with the dominant centre-back in 2021 before the German left Chelsea just one year later.

As Chelsea’s captain, it remains to be seen whether James would complete such a move, but the lure of the Santiago Bernabeu is rarely one that players deny, making next year a very interesting watch. It would certainly sum up the machine that is Real Madrid if they replaced veteran Dani Carvajal with a player of James’ calibre.

"Perfect" James is in crucial moment

There’s no one who is doubting James’ ability on the pitch, but after another recent injury setback, the question will come as to whether Chelsea should simply move on. The answer to that question, however, should centre around patience in a player who only few can match in his position when he is fit and firing.

Former manager Mauricio Pochettino was certainly aware of that quality even amid the injuries, saying via Chelsea Chronicle: “He’s a player that can be a leader, his character, his qualities. He’s present and the future of the club. He’s a perfect player, person, to be captain.”

If, and whilst it remains a big if, James can stay fit then the Real Madrid door looks set to swing open alongside the chance to write his name in history alongside the likes of Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe.

It’s a move that Rudiger made in the past and now one Chelsea’s academy graduate could yet make next summer. It would be an undoubted dagger for those at Stamford Bridge, that’s for sure, who’d be watching on as the star they’ve waited for time and time again swapped London for Madrid.

Liverpool secured their first victory in the new Champions League campaign over AC Milan at the San Siro on Tuesday evening, thanks to goals from Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk and Dominik Szoboszlai.

Arne Slot’s side dominated the game for large spells despite going a goal down early on after former Chelsea ace Christian Pulisic put the hosts ahead after just three minutes.

However, the Reds produced a magnificent display, putting right the wrongs of the weekend’s performance which saw the club fall to a shock 1-0 defeat against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League at Anfield.

Numerous players produced some much-improved performances, helping the club get off to the perfect start for the new European campaign in 2024/25.

Liverpool’s star performers against AC Milan

Cody Gakpo took full advantage of his recall to the starting lineup last night, producing some phenomenal figures despite failing to get on the scoresheet.

The Dutch international registered the assist for Szoboszlai’s second-half strike, whilst completing four dribbles – the most of any player in Slot’s side during the victory.

The 25-year-old also managed to win seven duels, the most of anyone who featured at any point during the outing for both sides, highlighting his impact at both ends of the pitch for the Reds.

Minutes played

68

Assists

1

Passes completed

18/22 (82%)

Key passes

2

Dribbles completed

4/7 (57%)

Duels won

7

Shots on target

2

Centre-back Konate also produced an admirable display alongside Van Dijk, with the pair starring at the heart of the Reds’ defence once again.

The Frenchman registered a 93% pass accuracy, whilst winning all of the tackles that he entered and making eight recoveries, helping the Reds defence turn around the early deficit in Milan.

However, despite the duo’s respective displays, one first-team member produced yet another dismal showing, with Slot needing to take action upon the club’s return to Premier League football this weekend.

The player who Slot needs to drop immediately

Diogo Jota was lucky to retain his starting spot after his showing against Forest last weekend, which saw him be replaced on the hour mark by fellow forward Darwin Núñez.

However, he started the victory last night, but once again failed to impress, being replaced after 68 minutes – once again by Uruguayan forward Nunez.

The Portuguese international registered two shots during the victory, but also managed to squander both of his efforts, which were both deemed as big chances.

He also only managed 23 touches, which was even fewer than teammate Alisson (27) achieved in the sticks – further showcasing his lack of impact. That makes for even more grim reading when considering that Alisson only actually had one save to make, with much of the play having been dominated by the visitors.

Equally, Jota also lost possession eight times, whilst also only managing to win 13% of the duels he entered – often coming out on the wrong side of the battles with the opposition defenders.

Jota was subsequently handed a 6/10 match rating by the Liverpool Echo journalist Paul Gorst, an indication as to how poor the forward was during the European outing.

There’s no denying the 27-year-old is a talent who has excellent qualities in the final third, but he’s desperately struggled to make any form of positive impact on Slot’s side.

Given his lack of form, Slot needs to take him out of the firing line, immediately replacing him for the league meeting against Bournemouth at Anfield this Saturday.

Gakpo just distracted everyone from how good £34m Liverpool star was

Arne Slot’s Reds started their Champions League campaign off with a bang…

ByAngus Sinclair Sep 18, 2024

Premier League giants Liverpool are believed to be interested in signing an “amazing” Sunderland player alongside Chris Rigg, according to a fresh transfer claim.

Liverpool eyeing Sunderland ace Chris Rigg

The Black Cats fell to second in the Championship table after five matches this season following their disappointing 3-2 defeat away to struggling Plymouth Argyle on Saturday afternoon.

There have been so many different Sunderland players who have caught the eye during the campaign to date, one of whom has been Rigg. Still only 17, the Englishman has performed with a level of maturity beyond his years, starting four of the five league games and continuing to enhance his reputation.

Rigg is such a highly-rated footballer that Liverpool have been linked with a move for him in the near future, seeing him as a player who could develop into something special over time. There is also the small matter of Real Madrid also reportedly seeing him as an option, which says even more about his ability.

Regis Le Bris will no doubt be desperate to keep hold of the teenage star for as long as possible, not least the entirety of this season, but there is always the threat of his head being turned by a move to one of Europe’s biggest clubs. Now, another Sunderland ace has also been linked with a move away from the Stadium of Light, acting as a further concern.

Liverpool also keen on another Sunderland hero

According to a new update from HITC, Liverpool are eyeing a move for Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson as well as Rigg.

The 24-year-old is said to be on the Reds’ “radar”, as they prepare to replace current backup to Alisson, Caoimhin Kelleher, at the end of this season. The Republic of Ireland No.1 looks increasingly likely to move on at that point.

While Rigg looks like a particularly prized asset for Sunderland, considering the impact he is making at just 17 years of age, Patterson is also a hugely important young player in his own right. He has already made 127 appearances for the Black Cats, becoming a hugely consistent performer between the sticks, and former manager Tony Mowbray once heaped praise on him, saying:

“The goalkeeper… listen, he’s a top goalkeeper. I’ve been in football more than 40 years and this kid is a very talented boy who has an amazing temperament. Nothing fazes him, he’s very calm about everything, he’s not bouncing all over the place and losing the plot. He’s a very calm goalie who makes great saves.”

The lure of moving to Liverpool could be huge, given their status as one of the biggest teams in the country, but Patterson will know that he may not be replacing Alisson any time soon, with the Brazilian arguably among the leading ‘keepers of his generation.

Sunderland have injury concern to "impressive" 24/ y/o alongside Ballard

This isn’t ideal for Regis Le Bris.

1 ByHenry Jackson Sep 15, 2024

Hopefully, he may feel that staying put at Sunderland for now is the best decision for him, before potentially testing himself elsewhere further down the line. Sealing promotion to the Premier League this season would certainly help, though, acting as a further incentive this season.

Everton could finally be set to solve their long-held striking issues…

What's the latest on Joel Piroe to Everton?

That's according to Dutch outlet Voetbal International, who detail Sean Dyche's interest in Swansea City star Joel Piroe.

It is noted that the Toffees have the Dutchman on their wish list, and his affordability makes him a more attractive proposition for the cash-strapped Merseyside outfit.

With just one year left on his deal in Wales, all signs point towards an exit for the marksman who has dominated the Championship in recent years. Especially with a reported price tag of just £12m.

This would also mark a fine alternative to Viktor Gyokeres, who has also been a target of theirs. With his value at a far more lofty £25m, and many more suitors vying for his signature, it could be time to look elsewhere.

Is Joel Piroe as good as Viktor Gyokeres?

Both of these frontmen have starred in the English second division of late, yet a questionable price disparity has opened up between the two.

Especially when it could be argued that Piroe offers far greater value, given he is two years younger and has matched the scoring levels set by Sweden international despite featuring for a far weaker side.

Coventry City have finished above the Swans in the last two seasons, and yet the 23-year-old managed 19 league strikes most recently, and a further 22 with six assists the year before even that. It is no surprise to see his former boss Russell Martin having branded him "clinical" in the past.

Comparing these figures with Gyokeres, the gulf is not nearly wide enough to merit a £13m difference in prices. The 25-year-old would score 21 times and assist a further ten during last term's playoff push, building upon his 17-goal haul during the 2021/22 campaign.

The two share a frighteningly similar physical profile too, standing at 6 foot 2 and 6 foot 1 respectively, yet are both blessed with a blistering turn of pace.

It is these key characteristics that suggest they would take to the top flight with ease, and finally provide that focal point that Dyche was so sorely lacking last season.

With Dominic Calvert-Lewin having missed the bulk of their recent campaign through injury, Everton were the division's second-lowest scorer with 34 goals in 38 league games. If they are to once again avoid the drop, as they have done with some fortune in recent years, they will need a reliable source of firepower.

Piroe would provide just that for a cut price, and despite Gyokeres being the preferred option for many, there would likely be little difference in opting for this former PSV Eindhoven youngster.

Arsenal have already enjoyed a busy summer transfer window, with Mikel Arteta keen to get his business done early in order to get them immediately integrated within his squad.

The Gunners enjoyed a fine recent campaign, but it concluded with little to show for it but their Champions League qualification. For all their progress, their Spanish manager will be far from content in allowing his team to slow down now.

Kai Havertz and Declan Rice are poised to be huge additions to his squad should they get both get secured, however, they each come with hefty price tags.

This makes the failed move for Ilkay Gundogan all the more frustrating, given his immense quality and availability this summer on a free transfer. Their interest was long-standing, but in the end, the allure of Barcelona proved too much.

In an effort to secure someone in a similar mould, perhaps the north London outfit could seek to reignite a rumour that has lost pace in recent weeks, by swooping for Dominik Szoboszlai.

Having showcased their willingness to spend big, the reported €70m (£61m) release clause could prove a minor stumbling block for the free-spending Gunners.

Is Dominiz Szoboszlai similar to Ilkay Gundogan?

The German proved to be an instrumental figure in Manchester City's recent treble success, starring in the Premier League and captaining the side to immortality.

He operated as the cornerstone of Pep Guardiola's revolutionary system too, occupying a role as a second number ten beside Kevin De Bruyne. Fortunately for Arteta, Szoboszlai is also well-versed in such a position and could offer fine balance to play next to Martin Odegaard within a similar philosophy.

Although the two boast varying physical profiles, they share an elite skillset and silky play style that has seen both shine in their respective leagues.

Gundogan recorded 11 goals and seven assists in all competitions last campaign, and yet when compared to other central midfielders across Europe, also ranked in the top 12% for pass completion, the best 17% for shot-creating actions and the top 4% for touches in the attacking penalty area per 90, via FBref.

When using Opta's player analysis tool, this same penchant for playmaking and dictating is outlined in the 22-year-old who posted 23 goal contributions of his own across all competitions, as he sits in the top 4% of positionally similar players in Europe for chances created.

Szoboszlai clearly excels with regard to creating chances, whilst his goalscoring and shots taken are similarly admirable. He could pose a true offensive threat under Arteta, and his youth makes him malleable, prepared to be turned into a world-class star.

After all, journalist Marcel Moeller had suggested he was a "generational talent" back in 2020, and he has only grown since then.

Offensively exceptional and with his whole career in front of him, the Hungary international has all the attributes to emulate Gundogan's success last season and even surpass him technically one day.

Tottenham Hotspur are holding "behind-the-scenes" discussions over whether to move for Leicester City pair James Maddison and Harvey Barnes, according to Sky Sports.

Who could join Tottenham this summer?

Ange Postecoglou, despite not officially starting work until July 1, has apparently earmarked summer transfer targets and even held talks with chairman Daniel Levy over strategy last week.

Of the names apparently wanted by Spurs, it has been reported that they're chasing a star centre-back or two to strengthen their back line, as no side above Bournemouth conceded more goals than them last season.

Staying near their backline, long-serving number one Hugo Lloris could be on the way out this summer by his own admission, leading to serious interest in Brentford goalkeeper David Raya among others.

As well as in defence, there have been suggestions of a potential move for Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher, with the north Londoners also targeting Maddison and his teammate Harvey Barnes.

The Daily Mail reported on Thursday that Spurs had lodged a £50 million double bid for the latter pair. but according to Sky Sports, things aren't exactly as advanced as that.

The broadcaster does however claim that both Maddison and Barnes are certainly of interest, and Spurs are even holding "behind-the-scenes" discussions over whether to move.

"Transfer update from Tottenham," said Sky.

"In the market to strengthen in midfield and attack, we're told there is a strong interest in the Leicester pair James Maddison and Harvey Barnes.

"It's thought discussions are ongoing behind-the-scenes about whether Tottenham will formalise that interest, after club sources told us no official bids have been made for the players."

How much will James Maddison cost?

While the report concerns both Maddison and Barnes, we believe a move for the former is of far more importance, especially considering his fine form last season.

The playmaker stood out as Leicester's star player, averaging a higher match rating than anybody in their squad over 2022/2023.

Maddison also attempted more shots at goal and completed more key passes per 90 than all of his teammates, highlighting why Tottenham are displaying an interest.

The 26-year-old, who looks set to leave the King Power Stadium following Leicester's relegation to the Championship, could still cost a pretty penny.

Indeed, reports suggest the Foxes value their prized asset at around £60 million, even despite their drop to England's second tier.

Regardless, we believe this may well be a price to pay for such a capable threat.

Manchester United appear to be closing in on a deal for Napoli defender, Kim Min-jae, following a significant update regarding the Red Devils' pursuit of the South Korean star.

What's the latest on Kim Min-jae to Man United?

According to Italian outlet Il Mattino, the 26-year-old is seemingly set to join the Old Trafford outfit at the beginning of next month, with United set to active the centre-back's €60m (£51m) release clause on 1 July.

The report adds that the former Fenerbahce ace has 'accepted' a contract offer of around €10.4m (£9m) a year from the Premier League outfit, with it looking as if a move to Manchester could be a matter of when and not if.

The 6 foot 3 ace – who has two years left to run on his existing deal in Naples – only made the move to the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium on a £16m deal last summer.

Would Kim Min-jae be a good signing for Man United?

If that deal is to go ahead as expected, it could represent a real statement signing for Erik ten Hag and co, with Kim having established himself as arguably the "best centre-back in the world" – according to departing boss Luciano Spalletti – after playing a vital role in Napoli's stunning Scudetto success in 2022/23.

The 49-cap "colossus" – as hailed by journalist Stephen Kasiewicz – notably helped to keep 14 clean sheets from 35 league outings en route to that title triumph, averaging a solid 1.6 tackles and 1.2 interceptions per game as a marker of his ball-winning dominance.

That physical presence – which has also seen the defender lauded as an "iron barrel" by teammate Kvicha Kvaratskhelia – is also shown by the fact that Kim ranks in the top 14% among those in his position across Europe's top five leagues for aerial duels won, ensuring he could prove a menacing proposition for any Premier League striker next term.

The major benefit of signing the £53k-per-week ace, however, could well be his quality on the ball, with the towering asset likely to help ease or cover up the shortcomings of long-serving United man, David De Gea in possession.

With the experienced Spaniard at times making the "whole team nervous" when trying to play out from the back – according to club legend Paul Scholes – the addition of a composed presence such as the Napoli rock could be just what is needed to bring a greater sense of calm to the backline.

That knack for getting involved in the build-up is shown by the fact that the one-time Beijing Guoan machine ranks in the top 10% for pass completion, as well as in the top 12% for both progressive passes and progressive carries, suggesting that he opts to look forward when in possession, rather than regularly playing back to his goalkeeper.

That could then aid De Gea – who has reportedly verbally agreed a new contract with the Red Devils – with current centre-back option Raphael Varane, for instance, perhaps less assured on the ball as the Frenchman ranks in just the top 35% for pass completion, as well as in just the top 48% and the top 25% for progressive passes and progressive carries, respectively.

To then have Kim alongside another forward-thinking option like Lisandro Martinez – who notably ranks in the top 11% for successful take-ons – would perhaps take the pressure off the man in the sticks, hence acting as a game changer for the former Atletico Madrid star and for Ten Hag.

Tottenham Hotspur fans online have been left furious with Harry Kane after he supposedly recommended a transfer swoop for Harry Maguire.

Who will Spurs sign this summer?

Spurs have recently appointed former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou as the club’s new manager and so plenty of focus is already on who he will want to sign this summer.

Of course, though, there is also a keen interest in who from the current crop will be leaving North London over the coming weeks and months.

Most notably of that bunch is Kane who has long been linked with an exit and is reportedly viewed by Real Madrid as a priority transfer target.

However, it sounds as though Daniel Levy could made a move in the summer window to help convince the 29-year-old striker to hang around a while longer.

Indeed, as per Matt Law of The Telegraph, Tottenham may look to sign Manchester United defender Maguire and this would please Kane who supposedly has a close relationship with the player and has, at one point, recommended Spurs sign the Englishman.

The journalist wrote: “Tottenham Hotspur have shown an interest in Manchester United outcast Harry Maguire in a move that would delight Harry Kane.

“The Spurs interest in Maguire is in no way linked to United’s desire to sign Kane and there is no suggestion of the potential for each player to move in opposite directions as part of the same deal.

“In fact, Tottenham’s interest in Maguire could be seen as a potential move to keep Kane, given the striker has previously recommended his England team-mate to the club and the pair share a close relationship from their time together with the national team.”

After the initial report emerged, it was soon circulated on social media, and it didn’t take long before some concerned Spurs supporters had their say on the matter.

He are the best Twitter reactions…

Some even joked Kane should be sold for the suggestion.

Liverpool are interested in Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo, having just plucked Alexis Mac Allister from the Seagulls' ranks.

That's according to the Telegraph, who claim that while Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United lead the charge for the Ecuadorian talent, Jurgen Klopp's Reds could enter the race.

Albion will demand more than £70m for their 21-year-old enforcer, with the Gunners failing with a bid of that value in January – with his club unwilling to sell at the season's midpoint. Previous reports stipulate it could well cost as much as £80m.

Caicedo penned a new deal at the Amex earlier this year, but this is not expected to dissuade his mounting pile of suitors, and while Liverpool will seek prudence in the market this summer, a signing of his calibre could be too sweet to resist.

How good is Moises Caicedo?

Only last season, the £60k-per-week Caicedo plied his trade out on loan in the Jupiler Pro League before earning a winter recall and starting Brighton's closing eight matches of the Premier League campaign, scoring one goal and supplying one assist.

He has replicated his direct return this year, starting 34 times in the league, and now stands as one of the most robust and unwavering midfielders in the division, and the interest from the division's top outfits is unequivocally warranted.

For Liverpool, he is exactly the kind of energetic and unflinching midfielder Klopp needs to rekindle the former verve, with the Reds falling by the wayside this term and finishing fifth, now facing a campaign in the Europa League.

Described as Ecuador's "crown jewel" by historian Enrico Castro-Montes, the 21-year-old ranks among the top 6% of midfielders across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for pass completion, as well as the top 15% for attempted passes, the top 13% for rate of tackles and the top 11% for rate of interceptions per 90, as per FBref.

While he boasts a somewhat different skill set to Liverpool's pass master, Thiago Alcantara, he could be the perfect heir to return the Anfield centre to its more industrious roots.

Thiago, for all of his flair and elegance, is incessantly tethered to the medical department and is out of contract in one year's time. Indeed, at 32-years-old Klopp will no doubt be seeking a successor. The German could well find that in Caicedo, a brute capable of easily displacing Liverpool's number 6.

The £200k-per-week Spaniard ranks among the top 3% of midfielders across Europe's top five leagues for attempted passes, the top 4% for progressive passes, the top 4% for rate of tackles and the top 11% for rate of interceptions, illustrating the impact Caicedo could make, with Thiago heralded as "a special player" by teammate Andy Robertson.

Caicedo, who has been dubbed "terrific" by South American football expert Tim Vickery, has been riding the crest of a wave with the Seagulls this season and has led them to their first-ever European campaign with a sixth-place finish, and while Albion are on the up, the allure of playing a central role in the resurgence on Merseyside could leave Liverpool with an imperious new midfield enforcer.