Liverpool have reportedly ruled out signing free-agent Max Kruse despite being linked with a move for the German striker earlier this summer.
According to LiverpooECHO, Liverpool are unlikely to continue their pursuit of Max Kruse this summer. It is believed that they are reluctant to block the path of teenage sensation Rhian Brewster while they also want to tie down Divock Origi to a long-term contract.
The Reds were linked with a move for Kruse earlier this summer. The German striker was considered as a back-up for Liverpool’s revered attacking trio of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino. The move was supported by logic as well given the fact that Kruse is coming on the back of a productive season with Werder Bremen in the recently concluded 2018/19 campaign.
Indeed, the former VfL Wolfsburg star was involved in as many as 21 goals in 32 league matches, helping Bremen finish with over 50 points for the first time in over a decade. However, the 31-year-old decided to see out his contract, despite the club’s initial wish to keep hold of the player. As a result, Kruse is now available as a free-agent.
The fact that he could be signed for free this summer would have made him a smart option for Liverpool. The Reds are currently in a position, where they need to continue their dominance in the Premier League and Kruse’s experience coupled with his ingenuity in the final third, in that regard, could have made them much more dangerous going forward.
The 31-year-old is a well-established forward and could have also provided excellent back-up to the injury-prone Firmino. He is also a versatile attacker, who can feature as an attacking midfielder/second striker – making it easier for Jurgen Klopp to accommodate him in his offensive unit.
That being said, expectations should be high from Origi next season, especially following Champions League antics. The Belgian is equipped with the ideal set of traits that could add another dimension to the Liverpool attack next season.
His physicality and hold-up play, for instance, makes him a tailor-made fit for the physically demanding nature of the Premier League. And it will be interesting to see how does Klopp plan to utilise his qualities on the break next season.
As for Brewster, he has shone in the youth leagues this past season, having been involved in 18 goals in 21 matches for the Liverpool reserves. And the 19-year-old will surely be presented with an opportunity to showcase his talents in the highest level of football by Klopp next season.
