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LIVERPOOL: Did the Reds overspend on Mane and Wijnaldum? Can Klopp guide LFC back to the top?

It was meandering into a pretty disappointing season for Liverpool last term but the arrival of Jurgen Klopp breathed new life into the club.

The German tried his best over the off-season to exhale even more life into Anfield as they prepare for a season devoid of European competition.

Some exciting names have made their way to Merseyside but will they be worth the splurge and be worthy of all the fanfare as the campaign kicks on?


Liverpool - 2016/17

Key signings


Sadio Mane - from Southampton for
£35m

Yet another Southampton player poached by Liverpool and Mane is certainly a star on the rise.

An energetic and powerful attacking asset, Mane arrives at Anfield with plenty of desire and its paid off so far with some stellar performances.

With Daniel Sturridge plagued by injury, Mane could just be Liverpool's most reliable source of goals this coming season.

Provides a different pathway to goal as he can get right in behind the opposing defence.

Expect fireworks at times!


Georginio Wijnaldum - from Newcastle United for
£23m

This Dutch midfielder was one of a few highlights for Newcastle last season with his smooth skills going forward reaping plenty of reward…at times.

His move to Liverpool may be a bit premature but he will undoubtedly add plenty of depth to their midfield when called upon and can only get better with every game.

Has been criticised for spending too much time out on the wings having little impact but when on the ball and around goal, things tend to happen.

Will fade in and out of matches but has the ability to be a match-winner on his day.


Loris Karius - from FSV Mainz 05 for
£4.7m

Brought in to challenge Simon Mignolet for the starting keeper spot, Karius looked likely to snare it after an outstanding season with Mainz.

In a cruel twist of fate, however, Karius would break his hand in pre-season and faces a few months on the sidelines.

Despite this unlucky start to his time at Anfield, Karius once fit will give Liverpool another very viable option between the sticks and keep Mignolet on his toes.

At just 23, remarkably has 91 Bundesliga appearances to his name and is well aware of the English game having previously spent time wth Manchester City's academy.


Ragnar Klavan - from Augsburg for
£4.2m

A versatile defender who joins from Augsburg, Klavan gives Klopp an extra option at the back should he need it.

With full defensive cast to choose from, the 30-year-old Estonia captain will likely be a Premier League benchwarmer but could really come in handy in the EFL and FA Cups when given the opportunity.

Has already proven his worth with impressive showings in his two Premier League starts.

Sits behind Dejan Lovren and Joel Matip but will be pushing the pair throughout the season.


Joel Matip - from Schalke for free

At 25 years of age, Matip arrives on a free transfer from Schalke having made close to 260 appearances for the German club, as well as featuring 27 times for Cameroon.

Don't let the fact he's arrived for nothing fool you, Matip will be an invaluable asset for the club. Does has some big shoes to fill in the form of the departed Martin Skrtel and Kolo Toure, but expect him to fill them with aplomb.

Received rave reviews for his recent Premier League debut against Spurs.


Alexander Manninger - from Augsburg for free

They say you can't buy experience, and in the case of 39-year-old Manninger, Liverpool haven't had to pay a cent for his.

Don't expect him to make many, nor any, starts for the club though, but as far as third choice keepers go, he's a very solid one.

Will be a great mentor and teacher to both Mignolet and Karius.


Overall

A very holistic approach to the transfer window by Liverpool as they recruit new blood across the pitch.

As is always the case wiht the bigger clubs, a plethora of players were linked over the summer, especially seeing as Klopp left a legacy with a high number of players he formerly managed in Germany.

The players who have arrived at Anfield all have the ability to contribute a great deal and Klopp would have signed them with his game plan in mind.

How much he can get out of them remains to be seen but he now has a lot more to work with than when he arrived last year.


Tribal's Transfer Rating: 7.5/10

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Joshua Thomas
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Joshua Thomas

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