Liverpool are strongly linked with a move for German attacker Julian Draxler in the January window. Draxler has been looking for an exit from his current club, Wolfsburg and Jurgen Klopp is looking to capitalise on the opportunity, despite strong interest from Ligue 1 heavyweights Paris St. Germain and local rivals Arsenal.
Draxler is a left-winger by trade, but is highly versatile and can play anywhere across the attack. His pace and trickery on the ball combined with his eye for a goal, make him a great asset to have in the team. The 23-year old had come out earlier expressing his desire to leave Wolfsburg and had also said that he was in negotiations with a few teams regarding a transfer.
With Liverpool and Klopp maintaining a strong interest in the player, we take a look as to how the Reds will line-up with Draxler in their ranks:
Formation: 4-3-3
Simon Mignolet (GK)
Mignolet had been replaced by Loris Karius in goal, but the German’s recent struggles have seen Mignolet reinstated in the side and is expected to hold on to the spot.
Nathaniel Clyne (RB)
Clyne has quietly gone about his job at right-back this season. His performances have been top notch and with next to no options in his position, he’s very important to Klopp’s side.
Joel Matip (CB)
Having signed for free, Matip has been the bargain signing of the season. He has settled into life in Premier League and at Anfield with so much ease and has formed a decent partnership with Dejan Lovren. Looks like someone who will feature in the heart of Liverpool’s defence for years to come.
Dejan Lovren (CB)
The Croatian has looked suspect at occasions, but alongside Matip, he looks a much better player and will keep his spot ahead of Ragnar Klavan.
James Milner (LB)
Revelation as a left-back, the former Manchester City man has been the most consistent performer for the Reds this term. Alberto Moreno has been relegated to the benches and it will stay the same way.
Jordan Henderson (DM)
It has been somewhat of a breakthrough campaign for the Liverpool captain. He is finally doing justice to his potential and talents and has been excellent in the deep-lying playmaker role for Liverpool, drawing comparisons to Xabi Alonso.
Adam Lallana (RCM)
The former Southampton man has been brilliant this season having already scored 6 goals and assisted a further 6 strikes. After having a largely subdued two seasons, Lallana seems to be blooming under Klopp.
Philippe Coutinho (LCM)
Prior to his injury, Coutinho was the star performer for Liverpool and one of the best players in the league. He has scored 5 times and assisted 5 goals and had been consistently influencing games with his brilliance. Expect him to move to a more central role if Draxler is brought in.
Sadio Mane (RW)
One of the signings of the season so far. Sadio Mane has settled into life at Anfield instantly and has already become a vital cog of the Liverpool team. He is the club’s top scorer with 8 goals and will definitely be missed during his AFCON involvement.
Julian Draxler (LW)
The 23-year old will slot in on the left-flank if he moves to the Merseyside. While there is no question over his obvious talent, his attitude is something that might be of concern. However, Klopp and Liverpool will have a gem at their hands if they bring him in.
Roberto Firmino (ST)
The Brazilian has been Klopp’s preferred option as a false No.9 this season, and his link-up play with Mane and Coutinho has been excellent. There has been a slight dip in form recently, but expect him to bounce back strongly.