Liverpool have more chance of success if they replace current centre-back Dejan Lovren with Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly, according to former club striker John Aldridge.The Reds are still competing for the Premier League title and the Champions League, but were knocked out of the FA Cup after suffering a surprise defeat to fellow top-flight side Wolves.
Should Liverpool replace Lovren with Koulibaly? Here is what you need to know…
Lovren, off the back of a successful World Cup campaign with Croatia, has made nine appearances in the Premier League and Champions League combined.
The 29-year-old has previously labelled himself as ‘one of the best defenders in the world’.
However, he has often been criticised for his performances, most recently in the Reds’ 2-1 loss away to title rivals Manchester City.
In contrast, Koulibaly has established himself as one of the most sought out centre-backs in Europe due to his consistency for Napoli.
The Senegal international has been linked with various moves away from the Serie A club, yet he remains a key figure in their talented side.
With Jurgen Klopp’s side still heavily involved in two key competitions, it is vital that all members of the squad are playing at their maximum over the coming months.
With the criticism Lovren has received regarding his performances, former Liverpool star Aldridge has urged the club to do all they can to sign Koulibaly who he feels is the missing puzzle piece to the Liverpool jigsaw.
Aldridge told the Irish Independent: “This is not a moment for Liverpool to hit the panic button,” he said. “But I would urge the club to consider making a move in the transfer market that could allow them to fit the final piece of a title-winning jigsaw into place.
“Dejan Lovren was a weak link in the defence once again as Jurgen Klopp’s men lost their first Premier League game of the season at Manchester City. And I suspect the Croatian will need to be replaced sooner rather than later if this team are to turn potential into success.
“We have seen the impact made by Virgil van Dijk since his £75m arrival last January and I wonder whether a move for a powerhouse defender like Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly could give Klopp’s side the bit they need at the back.
“Top-quality opposition continue to get joy out of targeting Lovren, as he as a tendency to lose concentration and this is why I believe Van Dijk needs an A-list defensive partner.”