By By Harry Ewbank – @HreEwbank
The transfer window again closes early for Premier League clubs this summer – before the season begins – meaning business has had to be done quickly.
From the Reds’ perspective, it has been a relatively quiet window which was to be expected. Nevertheless, there are still a selection of a fans who will always bemoan not strengthening even further and making the most of the club’s status as champions of Europe.
In truth reinforcements are the most vital ingredient for squad depth, as Klopp seems happy with his starting line-up, who have more than proved their worth last season.
The long lurking rumours of Nabil Fekir and Nicolas Pépé have been laid to bed in recent weeks, though the fantasy signings of Bruno Fernandes and Philippe Coutinho have continued to linger in the thoughts of fans until the very end.
Summer signings
Sepp van den Berg
A signing for the future would be the best way to describe young Sepp, whose minutes in pre-season were sparse. Problems with international clearance were the main contributing factor in this, however, and the 17-year-old is an investment looking forward.
The Dutch centre-back made 15 Eredivisie appearances for PEC Zwolle last season and has featured for his country at under-19 level.
It is believed Liverpool beat Bayern Munich to the deal, further proving the fact that he is one of the highest rated youngsters in the Netherlands. Working alongside Virgil van Dijk could prove to be the best thing for his development after all.
Harvey Elliott
It will take time to see if either of these signings come to fruition, nevertheless, as far as potential goes Elliott has already broken some long-standing records.
The youngster only turned 16 in May, yet deputised for Fulham last season. Aged 15 years and 174 days, Elliott made his debut in an EFL Cup tie against Millwall – in the process becoming the clubs youngest ever player, and the youngest to ever compete in the competition.
After his 16th birthday he would also make his Premier League bow, a long while after Fulham has been succumbed to relegation. All in all, it’s been a bright start to life with the European champions for the winger, despite some hiccups.
After first appearing against Napoli at Murrayfield, Elliott played an integral part in the 3-1 victory against Lyon and certainly caught the eye of fans.
On the other hand, he has had to face the harsh realities of being in the spotlight at such a young age, having to apologise about an offensive video relating to England captain Harry Kane.
Adrián
Sunday night saw the departure of Simon Mignolet, a true professional who had a mixed six years at the Anfield club.
After featuring as a backup goalkeeper last season, it was time for the Belgian to move on to regain first team football, though it didn’t take long for Michael Edwards to fill the void left.
Less than 24 hours later, former West Ham United stopper Adrián was unveiled as the new understudy to Alisson – regarded as one of the world’s best ‘keepers right now.
Despite not being a star signing, the deal to sign the Spaniard is shrewd business again by those at the top of the club.
