Liverpool are actively seeking to strengthen their defensive lineup and have set their sights on Benjamin Pavard, a seasoned player from Bayern Munich.
The team has already secured a deal for Alexis Mac Allister early in the summer transfer window and is now looking to bolster their midfield further.
However, manager Jurgen Klopp recognizes the pressing need for defensive cover and aims to add another player to his backline.
Pavard Situation at Bayern
Bayern Munich have had a challenging season despite winning the Bundesliga, and significant changes may be in store for the squad. The club’s internal power struggle could grant manager Thomas Tuchel greater autonomy in shaping the team, rather than relying on a director of football.
In light of this, Liverpool have turned their attention to Benjamin Pavard, a French player who has expressed his desire for a fresh start after four years with the German champions.
According to Christian Falk from SportBILD, Pavard’s agents are already in talks with several clubs, with Liverpool emerging as a strong contender.
Pavard: A Perfect Fit for Liverpool?
Pavard’s profile aligns well with Liverpool’s strategy, particularly as they seek to redefine the role of Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The England international has recently ventured into midfield, with Ibrahima Konate, another French signing from the Bundesliga, filling the vacant right-back position. Although players start at their natural position but this shift occurs in the middle of the match.
Pavard’s versatility as a right-sided center-back, with experience playing as a right-back, makes him an appealing candidate for Liverpool. He would provide better defensive coverage than Konate and also challenge Alexander-Arnold for the right-back position.
However, Tuchel may have plans to retain Pavard, given his proficiency in playing within a back three formation, which the manager has employed frequently throughout his career.
Pavard’s Unwillingness to Play as a RB
Pavard’s desire to play as a center-back, a role he prefers over right-back, is the main motivation behind his decision to leave Bayern Munich.
Although he has occasionally been deployed in central defense, he aspires to secure a more consistent role in that position, which is unlikely to be fulfilled at his current club.
In the 2022/23 season, Pavard made 43 appearances and scored seven goals as Bayern Munich clinched their 11th consecutive Bundesliga title in a thrilling fashion on the final day.
Pavard’s ability to adapt to multiple positions along the back line makes him an attractive prospect for Jurgen Klopp, considering the fluid nature of Liverpool’s new formation.
As negotiations between Liverpool and Bayern Munich progress, it remains to be seen whether Pavard will become a part of Liverpool’s defensive reinforcements, or if Tuchel will manage to retain the World Cup winner due to his tactical preferences.
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