REDS WANT TO SIGN FIGHTERS NOT BIG NAMES
JURGEN KLOPP believes Liverpool’s success means they can now attract a completely different level of player.
But the Reds boss also admits that brings with it a new set of problems – his team is now so good, even the biggest names fear they could not get in it.
Liverpool will extend their lead at the top of the Premier League back to 22 points if they beat West Ham tonight, and move to within four wins of lifting the title.
And Klopp knows they are now a ‘destination’ club – with big names like Germany’s Timo Werner (right) calling them the best in the world.
Klopp said: “If they see you are successful, it’s easier to get into talks with players. But on the other side, it’s more difficult the better your team is as they ask, ‘Where and when would I play?’.
“We need players who want to be part of this, who want to fight for their spot, who want to make the next step with us, develop and improve.”
Klopp has performed a remarkable transformation at Anfield, building a platform where his team look assured of staying at the highest level for many years to come.
But he says it is wrong to suggest Liverpool are the best in the world, even if their attitude is world-best level. He added: “When people mention ‘the best team in the world,’ you think of Real Madrid from a few years ago, Barcelona from a few years ago, Man City of the last two years.
“The team we have is about attitude mixed with really good football players.
“What I loved from my team at Atletico Madrid in the Champions League is we didn’t play like the best team in the world, we fought like crazy to get through it. Our attitude was exceptional.”