Liverpool Banter Archive July 19 2017

19 Jul 2017 21:44:32
Question for ed025 is he's about? Just after your opinion mate, obviously other reds jump in with yours aswell guys.

Basically I do love the opinion of other fans (especially rivals) and Just wanted to know in regards to next season do you see Everton getting closer to Liverpool in terms of league position and results against them?
In my opinion I don't Think they are a million miles away but feel we do maybe have an upper hand, although I do think Everton will be a very tough team to beat next year I expect them to break into the top 6 and potentially win a trophy, I think Everton fans would be over the moon with that? but to do that I think they may need to break this hoodoo at anfield then they could also break his trophy hoodoo aswell.
For ourselves It may be an ask but I'd love to win a thropy, get inside the top four again (maybe push towards the league) and have a decent run in the champions league that to me would be a perfect season.
Anyway to conclude I think maybe in a couple years Everton and Liverpool may be neck in neck and it would be great for the city if both teams were doing well in my opinion do you agree? Part of me would love it but dread it too!
Anyway cheers for any opinion and have a good night all eds and reds.

{Ed025's Note - i hoping we do dilldog, our squad is definitely improved and its koemans team now as opposed to martinez,s cast off,s, we are not finished yet and i expect at least a couple more will come in, we have in the past been unable to compete financially with the big boys but now it seems those days are behind us and i dont think there is much between our two teams, i also expect liverpool to strengthen and so it will be game on mate..

19 Jul 2017 22:12:06
If Everton and Liverpool are neck to neck in 2 years then it means Liverpool has not progressed at all! Just like Arsenal and Spurs now!

19 Jul 2017 22:28:26
Good post.

Credit where credit is due, I'm not just a Liverpool fan but a football fan and it can't be ignored at how well Everton has done this window, fair play to them. Of course it does my head in, in a way. I see people say they wouldn't have them players at Liverpool, but it's not Liverpool is it. Everton identified who THEY wanted and went out and got them and it has improved their squad, there's no doubt about it (apart from Rooney) .

I envisage Everton been 'up there' with the rest of the top teams. As much as it pains me.

Scary thought isn't it? - in this league you have to spend money, without money your nothing, they have done incredible so far least they;ve got who they wanted with no hassle.

Exciting times for you ed25 mate.

19 Jul 2017 22:43:43
Cheers mate, I do appreciate the reply. Another thing I meant to add was it's also good they're doing this business early as the plays can mould through pre season and what not. either way it's going to be interested times for both clubs. Only looking upwards.

19 Jul 2017 23:22:53
Personally I think in a couple of seasons Everton will finish in the top 4!

And then with a bit of luck they'll get back into the Premier League through the play-offs. 😏.

19 Jul 2017 23:54:57
Losing Lukaku will cripple them. If they kept hold of him and added all these players, top four was on.

20 Jul 2017 00:05:47
A lot has been made of Everton's new spending power but considering they just got 75m for Lukaku they haven't really spent anything on top of that.

20 Jul 2017 00:13:39
I wouldn't see Everton as a top 6 threat right now though I stand to be corrected and that can only be in how the season pans out. It could be a make or break season for their manager though.

I believe that it is all about how the team / squad gels together and I will be honest I feel if Liverpool were to recruit more than 3 or 4 effectively first team players in one season following Klopp already having had established a decent team spirit, that it couldn't damage more than support an improvement.

I guess I am saying that the more you bring in the more the man management / motivational factor that is required has to kick in and work pretty quickly.

I am not saying that the Everton manager is not capable of generating that gel required but I am saying that with many new players it remains to be seen how effective he can be in that regard. After spending clubs tend to be less tolerant of no quick wins and positive effects of transfers as do fans so I expect early indications to be do or die for the manager. There is expectation and expectation provides pressure!

20 Jul 2017 00:16:28
Fowler top 4 was never on. Not in a million years. Are you telling me their squad is better than any of Chelsea, Spurs, City, Liverpool, Utd or Arsenal?! Not even close mate. They have some decent players but ultimately are they any better than Southampton, West Ham, West Brom even perhaps Newcastle? No they are not and they are trying to introduce half a team of new players, non of which would get into the starting teams of any of the teams mentioned above. This Everton love in really is ridiculous they are miles away.

20 Jul 2017 00:25:02
Quality over quantity anytime for me. LFC have tried throwing money at lots of players but under Klopp, there definitely has been a shift towards quality.

I think the for Everton, like Ed025 says, it's Koeman's squad now, they have spend the money, and now they need to show it through their performance.

20 Jul 2017 00:57:16
Losing lukaku is a blessing for Everton, glad he has gone United - Everton will play better without him.

20 Jul 2017 01:17:15
I'd like to see Everton rise again but I don't see how selling your best player and top goal scorer and replacing him with 4/ 5 mid level players closes the gap. It's the same thing Liverpool did when Suarez left and Spurs when Bale left, neither team was better for it.

20 Jul 2017 03:17:18
If we get Keita and VVD, then the toffees will be too scared to even step onto the pitch in the Merseyside Derby (mark my words) . The game will have been won by us before the match has even begun (like it has since the beginning of time) .

20 Jul 2017 05:16:11
Leicester's squad was terrible relative to the top 6 and they won the league. So it shows anyone can do it. Yes they had a couple of good players and in a year where the top 6 all exploded! But the point is that it gives hope to everyone in the league about where they might finish.

What is interesting about this post is that if Everton makes top 6, who misses out?!

19 Jul 2017 22:22:14
I remember we selling Suarez and buying so many. now you guys sold Lukaku and bought so many. Let's see what comes of it.

{Ed025's Note - the difference is that we have bought quality xpert, you bought mediocrity mate..

19 Jul 2017 23:31:50
Sorry Ed but Everton are nowhere near competing with the big boys. You've not even broken your transfer record in a market where everyone is with each signing they make and have signed players with potential which we know too well is a very tricky business. There is a massive difference between the 2 squads too. You don't have any players anywhere near the quality of Coutinho, Mane, Salah, Firmino, Lallana, Henderson. I'd say the only positions you're better than us is your fullbacks. I really do feel that you will struggle this season and will be around mid table behind Southampton and West Brom and around West Ham and Newcastle. Sorry mate but I just think that's where you are. Expect Koeman to be under massive pressure come the end of the season or even before.

{Ed025's Note - you are of course entitled to your opinion HT even though your logic is flawed, you are bigging up players there who are very overrated imo and if you dont think the likes of keane, pickford, baines, coleman, and gana walk into your team then your red tinted specs need upgrading mate...not to mention klassen and sandro who may also usurp your perrenial under achievers..

20 Jul 2017 07:01:50
Walk into our team? Most of those - no I don't think so! Some (the full backs in particular, who have been with you a while and were performing better though a few years back now) may offer a challenge, granted, but definitely not walk straight in. I actually think Klopp may have gone full throttle after them (the new ones, who surely would have preferred CL football) should he and the LFC hierarchy thought so also.

Maybe we all have our clubs colours, tinted glasses right?

{Ed025's Note - very much so LKD, logic goes right out the window when it comes to our own mate...but i bet my dad can fight yours.. :)

20 Jul 2017 07:14:33
I am not knocking Everton by the way. I think they have a decent manager and I think a decent enough squad. I just don't think (and yes that's Just a personal opinion) It is a 2017/ 18 top six squad. Can the manager turn it into one either next season or, more realistically, thereafter - remains to be seen. But if he can then I expect his and the players marketability to then increase rapidly and it all changes then. The bigger clubs struggle to hold on to diamonds - the toffees are not going to outdo them in that regard - it would be waving bye bye to short lived romance.

{Ed025's Note - the thing is LKD that its all relative to the optimism that comes with the start of every new season, im sure that when everton lose their first game that i like most will be asking for the sacking of koeman and for players to be sold and the chairman to resign..its just the nature of the beast mate, like it or not we are all very fickle and thats not going to change anytime soon, but in the end we will always be great and your lot crap otherwise we will all go around wearing them bloody awful half red half blue scarves mate.. :)

20 Jul 2017 07:15:47
Michael Keane, Davy Klaassen and Jordan Pickford are good singing, and Pickford would get in are team ed025. but the hardest thing about football is scoring goals. so you do still need to replace Lukaku as Rooney I think is a bit like when we signed Fowler back ok for a squad player but not good enough to score the goals you need to get top 6. but I do see spurs struggling this year playing there home games at Wembley. very big pitch and the way they play like us that is lot of ground to cover so if you get another forward I can see you finishing above spurs.

{Ed025's Note - sandro ramirez grino?...he could be the new improved lukaku mate never mind who else joins the royal blue revolution..

20 Jul 2017 07:34:35
Lol - good answer Ed! And I can't compete!

But my dad, I will have you know, was a pretty decent fighter when he was alive 20 years ago.

{Ed025's Note - mine has been gone 8 years now and i come from a dynasty of lovers not fighters mate.. :)

20 Jul 2017 07:52:41
😊👏!

20 Jul 2017 08:07:46
So you are hanging your hat on Sandro Ramirez ed? Like I said mid table. He's a kid who's had one season in la Liga and scored 14 goals. I'd say he's about as good as Solanke who will struggle to get in our match day squad. You've just proved my point.

{Ed025's Note - sandro scored his goals against the likes of barca and real madrid though HT, solanke was playing for chelsea reserves against the likes of coventry and luton...massive difference mate..

20 Jul 2017 08:22:29
Most important is how they Everton Identified thier targets, got them in early and implemented a plan. For me that speaks volume.

20 Jul 2017 08:59:22
Who they played against has little relevance Ed but he also scored against the likes of Granada who are about as good as Coventry and Luton. We will see but I'm expecting another Luis Alberto, talented player but not top 6 quality. You simply can't compare him to Firmino, Mane, Coutinho etc. As for Keane, Klaasen and Pickford! 😂 Keep dreaming!

{Ed025's Note - time will tell HT but you may just be surprised mate..

20 Jul 2017 09:03:07
In short Ed the only 2 players you have that could 'walk' into our side are baines and Coleman and we'll have to see about Coleman after his injury (which I was gutted about BTW nobody deserves that) .

20 Jul 2017 09:08:55
Happy Tappy, Leicesters squad wasn't better then any of the teams you mentioned mate and they went and won the league.

There's no 'Everton love' it's a little respect for what they have accomplished that's all mate.

Hounsred - they have spent more then 75mil.

20 Jul 2017 09:14:32
Teabag, I agree with most of your post but to say without money you are nothing in the premier league is a bit overboard don't you think? Look at Leicester.

20 Jul 2017 09:15:17
The spending was just the lukaku money. Where's the fellani money haha.

No improvement.

Few changes here and there but same old.

Walsh fails under pressure. Better when no-one knows who he is. Apart from professionals in the game who respect him.

Lcfc after title win. Blew money. got money again blew it. Think he's better being shrewd.

Everyone of your signings is just an ok player some for stupid money.

Keane. Average. Klassen is utter tosh. Pickford is just young and English so deemed a good buy. Sig is average. Sandra apparently is good. Bowler average. I think your just happy you have spent money. Like us after Suarez. It will end in tears and koeman gone by Feb. Sorry bud.

Lost 25 goals a season. Swapped Barkley for someone who not much better. Added a midfielder to an already bloated position. Keane is he any better than jags? Sandra. I remember when we signed aspas came with about the same reputation and off a similar season.

Nowhere near us in afraid. Not because where much better just that your recruitment has been so poor.

Honeymoon period for first 6 games then it will level out to simply missing lukaku.

Better to face reality now than to dream of anything better than finishing 6th to 10th.

20 Jul 2017 09:22:04
It's that Sandro lad who I think's going to be decent.

20 Jul 2017 11:38:15
Those mocking Evertons signings need to think carefully about how they've gone about their business and who they have brought in.

First of all the comparisons with us make no sense - Suarez, before he left, was an absolute monster. Giving everything week in, week out, phenomenal work rate, creating goals from nothing, etc etc he was an enigma. Lukaku was not that. When he could be bothered he was a force to be reckoned with but how many times did he simply drift through games barely breaking a sweat? And let's not forget a lot of his goals were created for him by those around him. True you need someone to finish chances, and he is very good at that, but his influence on the team was far less than Suarez's on ours.

As for Evertons signings? Sandro is a snip for the price they paid. Will he score as many as Lukaku? Perhaps not, but he will get goals and he will fit in well. You also have the young Ademola Lookman who looks a real prospect with pace to burn - another player who will grow. I think it's clear that Everton have adopted a clear policy with regards to transfer and are implementing it quietly and efficiently. I think top 4 might be a stretch as everyone is strengthening this summer and not just with minor additions but they will cause problems - I don't think Lukaku is going to weaken them much: and to get 75million for the lazy git? Impressive negotiating skills, never worth that much in my opinion - especially when Morata goes for 60.

In short I'm quite worried by our local neighbours this season - they're building something long term and, unless we get our acts together, we could be adding them to the list of teams we're competing with for Europe.

20 Jul 2017 12:50:32
Joes treble - I can't argue with that mate. Having said that, how many times does such a season like that happen? it's very rare mate, the majority of the time it's the 'top teams' up there who have spent the dosh.

20 Jul 2017 17:55:25
Teabag, you are absolutely right mate. although Leicester was a major exception they proved that it's not about marquee individuals but more a case of togetherness and belief.

19 Jul 2017 21:26:26
That's it 2 failed attempts. let's give up. What's the point? While we're at it, sell Coutinho. Mane too. We're doomed. Let Everton play at Anfield. They deserve it more now 'cause Rooney's back and they got rich owners. Save's 'em building a new one. Swap places with Arsenal so they can carry on their run in Champions League. We'll only lose the playoff anyway. We can't buy anyone but duds, hopeless cases and rejects. Sack Klopp. So depressed 'cause Gerrard's knees have gone too. Boo!

{Ed025's Note - i enjoyed that.. :)

19 Jul 2017 21:58:12
Love it.

19 Jul 2017 22:01:41
Absolutely brilliant, I've got a horrible feeling this is genuinely how the poster feels too.

Anyway gave me a good laugh.

19 Jul 2017 21:34:03
Hahaha ed25 lol bet that made ya night mate :)

19 Jul 2017 22:45:19
Savage post.

19 Jul 2017 22:04:33
Its ok for you ed mate with ya multiple new signings and ya rich owners, CL nailed on next year lol😂😂

Give us some good news mate on Keita please. Is it over?

{Ed025's Note - adele is not singing yet MR..

19 Jul 2017 20:52:06
Renato Sanchez instead of keita anyone? I know his last season wasn't the best but he's still got all the ability just needs confidence and regular football plus he's available at half the price that keita isn't available for.

20 Jul 2017 03:19:24
No thanks. Poor man's Grujic imo. Renato is a p***y, Grujic is a beast.

19 Jul 2017 20:22:54
Hello, possibly the Eds but for open thoughts.

I must admit Salah is a great signing but I would not have thought of him going into summer. Given our two top pursuits VVD and Keity may not happen, who would you sign to strengthen Liverpool (within reason) .

I think the central midfielder Leicester bought last year and played at the end of the season (sorry names are an issue for me) would be a good addition and whilst i did not see it at first Gibson (Middlesborough) maybe a solid centre back, although not too sure on his leadership, which we I would say we need at the back.

I am not too hung up on marque signings as the team and mentality should be everything as Ferguson proved year in year out.

19 Jul 2017 20:35:43
Do you mean Ndidi? I agree, I thought he was impressive last season.

19 Jul 2017 21:38:43
Dee Do doe don't Dee doe? Did Ndidi do dat didee? Surely his name alone means we should sign him?

19 Jul 2017 22:29:29
Haven't they just replaced him with iborra?

Not good enough for us. Simple. Just a name.

There's only step downs from keita.

There are alternatives though. Jean Seri, nzonzi, matuidi, cyprian, grujic.

20 Jul 2017 00:25:21
With Robertson looking likely I would go for Perraira if he's still available and all out for VVD or another top CB as I think the defence is far more pressing than any other part of the pitch. I still think the ox could do a job in many positions so would round off with him.

19 Jul 2017 19:35:05
Regarding keita, I personally think we will go in with a take it or leave it offer which will hopefully be accepted.

I would like to think the club believe we can get him otherwise it is just a massive waste of resources. I'm hoping that their stance is more to keep their fans appeased rather than the line they are telling Liverpool behind the scenes.

This could all be wishful thinking and blind optimism, but that's what football is all about isn't it?

{Ed025's Note - it is mate..

19 Jul 2017 19:44:35
We have spend weeks chasing the player and lost all potential alternatives in between. I expect us to press for the signing. Klopp wants Keita and only Keita!

19 Jul 2017 20:41:42
Do we even need another choice? If he believes he will strengthen our squad then that's good enough for me. Otherwise we won't buy, we have a decent midfield.

19 Jul 2017 22:16:16
@Fency

What if he get us the league just like Kante did for Chelsea?

19 Jul 2017 23:18:50
Kante + Goals = Keita.

19 Jul 2017 19:05:13
So big question. Apparently there was seven EPL teams after Robertson. He chose us.

Would he have joined us in that case if he was told to be cover for Milner?

I have a feeling we are going to see Milner move to RB.

19 Jul 2017 19:42:20
I'd agree with you Max. Although many may disagree, I could see us selling Clyne towards the end of the window. That would leave us with TAA and Robertson as 'specialist' FBs and Milner/ Flanno as cover for both sides.

Likely start with Robertson and Milner as first choice, although TAA could force himself in during the season.

19 Jul 2017 20:10:42
Flannagan is off this window! Clyne and TAA for the RB, Milner and Robertson for the LB!

19 Jul 2017 20:17:40
Ok one question if I may. If/ When Robertson arrives why put the only oot and out LB on the bench? (Forgot to say 1st choice)

19 Jul 2017 21:12:46
why noone thinks Milner could go? He is getting older, on a big wage and could easiliy find a club, and liverpool would not stand in the way. then maybe moreno stays and we have 2 lb and clyne and TAA rb.

19 Jul 2017 21:19:38
TAA looks up to the task. He's an intelligent footballer and not afraid to get stuck in.

20 Jul 2017 05:27:14
Think Robertson will do OK - not the most glamourous of players anf there are arguably better left-backs available out there but it does at least give us an attacking fullback option who doesn't need to cut back onto his right foot - that alone could make the difference - hopefully the lad can step up and really work on, and improve, his game.

19 Jul 2017 18:00:26
Ed, clearly Liverpool aren't the most efficient or graceful in the transfer market, in fact I think we're getting worse in every way.

Do you think a good DoF would help us and rectify our errors?

I think Klopp worked under one at Dortmund (? ) so would be used to it.

You only have to look at Everton and City who have good DoFs and are working quickly, quietly and efficiently without upsetting anyone.

I think a lot of that is to do with asking the vending club 'how much for X? ' and then just paying it instead of trying to underpay by X%. By not stumping up the cash we seem to block the transfer for ourself by pissing off the vending club.

{Ed002's Note - Yes I do and Liverpool has already appointed a Sporting Director and decided not to go with someone suitable.}

19 Jul 2017 18:59:21
Getting in a proper Director of Football will solve many problems for Liverpool.

19 Jul 2017 19:05:18
😂 @ ed002.

Post of the week 👍.

19 Jul 2017 19:13:12
Best statement I have read this transfer window Ed. Well done Toonred for bringing it up.

19 Jul 2017 19:55:32
Cheers DLR mate. Thought the record needed changing. Would be interested to hear everyone's thoughts .

19 Jul 2017 22:34:24
How does it make a difference if you don't want to pay what a club wants?

Lukaku done 90 mil. Morata done 70 mil. Walker done 54 mil.

If we can't afford keita or don't want to pay the big bucks then walk away stop pissin people around if you have no intention of paying what they want.

Keita is going to be around 70/ 80 mil. I know that and I'm just a fan who has nothing to go off apart from what's currently happening in the market. If we can't pay that then just get out of negotiating for him, esecially sith a club who ain't got no need for money and aren't interestes in haggling.

20 Jul 2017 05:37:05
It makes a difference Spider as a competent, quality DoF will prevent the club from making serious mistakes and pissing off all and sundry. Take the Keita transfer, for example - we deliberately tried to unsettle the player in order to engineer the move. Do you think RBL appreciated that? Do you think that softened there stance towards negotiations or hardened it? We, as a club, have burnt a lot of bridges and continued to act classless with regards to others clubs - a DoF, a good DoF, can help prevent such mishaps which would a) improve our reputation and perception within the footballing world and b) allow us much smoother negotiations with potential targets making the transfer more likely to make it over the line.

Add to that that a good DoF ensures the entire club has the same mindset and philosophy, from academy to first team, and you can imagine how much good that sort of cohesion does. A DoF does not guarantee you will sign every target you want - but it does go someway to helping the club approach things in the right way and this in turn should make a difference when negotiating transfers.

20 Jul 2017 09:18:03
Yeah because he will be in control of klopp internet access and phones?

Klopp made those calls. Made those decisions. Not anyone above at the club.

19 Jul 2017 18:30:36
Hi Eds.

Does anyone think that Gomez could slot in as a holding midfielder and drop back in to make a 3 at the back as needed?

He seems very composed on the ball.

19 Jul 2017 18:51:43
I think he could ala Eric Dier at Spurs. But I don't see the point. Spurs did that when they had two incredibly offensive wing backs, and Dembele and Alli both pushing up. Since they have brought in Wanyama and started using Trippier and Davies more, they have dropped that tactic, and improved.

We should be getting ahead of the game, not trialling tactics deployed by Spurs in 2015/ 16 season where they finished 3rd in a 2 horse race, such is the bunch jokers they are!

Henderson and Can are both good players in that holding role, so I see no need to take a gamble on Gomez there, irrespective of whether or not it could work. A good debate none the less though buddy.

19 Jul 2017 19:02:43
I think it is fair to say that with the amount of CM's we have, there will be absolutely no chance of Gomez making an appearance there.

19 Jul 2017 19:18:51
I know it's only a friendly but Gomez handled Benteke well and his pace was good.

19 Jul 2017 20:11:24
If we're moving players about I'd rather put Grujic as a centre back.

19 Jul 2017 20:43:43
Gruijic has. A lot to his game, too much for CB.

20 Jul 2017 00:07:50
I noticed in certain games last season where the other team defended deep and parked the bus. (so called lessr teams)

We attacked them relentlessly having a huge percentage of posession but often only drew or even sometimes got caught with the sucker punch of a counter attack.

In these matches Henderson and Can which ever one was playing both had the instinct to push forward to affect play probably through frustration.
This left thd 2 centre halfs exposed as the full backs were forward as well

A defensive minded footballer like Gomes may not have the instinct to push up and in the case of any break you have 3 at the back instead of 2.

Just a thought as Gomes looks impressive and like he could offer more than just centre back.
And its not really changing the posistion az really its 3 centre backs with 1 pushed up.

19 Jul 2017 18:00:46
Do you think not getting keita will make us more likely to go for Ox? Cheers.

19 Jul 2017 19:19:03
Hope not.

19 Jul 2017 17:49:34
Being reported that Keitas representatives are meeting with Liverpool in Hong Kong . I'm pretty sure this is a load of bull but could this be the final play in the most long drawn out boring saga in transfer history . He surely has to hand in a request for us to even have a distinct possibility.

19 Jul 2017 17:58:59
Why would they meet liverpool board If RBL is not willing to sell? Makes no sense to me!

19 Jul 2017 18:29:29
Just like all your posts then.

19 Jul 2017 18:40:42
Probably the same reason you think liverpool board is in hong kong.

19 Jul 2017 16:56:34
Saw most of the game today. Gomes looks good. Can't see why we want vvd when we have Gomez. I think he has more potential and won't cost us 70 million. Gomez and matip first choice with lovren klavan as backup.

19 Jul 2017 17:52:58
Gomes has a lot of potential and I think a good run of games would benefit him immensely. I just don't think he quite ready for starting a long run of games in the current lfc back four. He made a few mistakes today and personally think it would be jumped on by so called fans and his confidence may drain if he was doing this at top end and champs league level. I think a season loan at a mid table to lower prem team would benefit his education at Then we can assess again next summer and see what level he at. Let's not forget he still quite young and hasn't played a lot of football in last 18 month so loan is best in my opinion.

19 Jul 2017 15:43:51
What I find really hard to understand is the fact we seem to have wasted approx 5weeks chasing a player who's club had said over and over again he is not for sale at any price!? Ed002 said this at the time so why have well paid, well established people at our club continued to chase a lost cause, leaving hardly anytime to consider alternatives? I am totally gob smacked to even begin to understand the logic.

19 Jul 2017 16:36:05
IF your scenario was accurate, I wouldn't be at all surprised. I doubt it's accurate though.

19 Jul 2017 16:36:53
Those who raised concerns over the slow moving transfer negotiations were quickly ripped off by " Its been only X days into the window. "
the worst case we don't even have alternatives!

19 Jul 2017 16:43:15
Every transfer window has examples of club a chasing player that club b refuses to sell putting in numerous offers until, one way or another, club a get their man. Also examples where they don't too. You don't know if its a waste of time until the window closes.

19 Jul 2017 16:45:39
Most clubs will say their best players aren't for sale, but if the player wants to go, it can be difficult to stop him. Also, if the price offered is very high, the club may be tempted to take the money. It's not rocket science.

19 Jul 2017 16:48:20
Our average is one transfer every 6 days of the window 🏆

3 transfers, 18 days.

19 Jul 2017 16:51:41
expect more than 5 weeks, ssn reporting were readying a 3rd bid.

19 Jul 2017 16:52:06
Slowdog, that is it mate, it was our improved bid that was rected. They won't sell. We have ended interest. Move on.

19 Jul 2017 16:55:37
So we should Just go after those their clubs want to get rid instead? we can sign 5 In A week easily if it makes you happy.

19 Jul 2017 18:05:49
Did'nt one of the Eds once mention that we had a bid around £50 mill rejected weeks ago, when the interest first got known, the a bid of £58 mill rejected, and now a bid of £64 mill rejected, which would make the next our fourth, or am I wrong?

Meanwhile United comes sneaking in with their tiny pecker at £70 mill straight. Sold. Lepizig in the media afterwards. "He was our best player and we did not wan't to loose him, but this offer was just to good to decline! We wish Keita all the best with them Mancs! "

19 Jul 2017 18:18:26
Smedegaard - it's not the size of the boat, it's the motion of the ocean. My other half reliably informs me this is the case.

{Ed025's Note - i like that mate..

19 Jul 2017 16:05:05
Now that Palace has conceded two, Would they realize their mistake and come back for Sakho! They should meet the asking price as Sakho is the best they could ever afford!

19 Jul 2017 17:52:51
It's a friendly .

Can't get over excited about pre season - EVER!

19 Jul 2017 15:43:51
What I find really hard to understand is the fact we seem to have wasted approx 5weeks chasing a player who's club had said over and over again he is not for sale at any price!? Ed002 said this at the time so why have well paid, well established people at our club continued to chase a lost cause, leaving hardly anytime to consider alternatives? I am totally gob smacked to even begin to understand the logic.

19 Jul 2017 16:01:32
Yep frustrsting but the priority is just keeping hold of coutinho.

Keita s over now. Vvd same.

Hopefully grujic and Gomez shine this season. Like two new signings anyway.

19 Jul 2017 18:01:48
The priority for title chasing sides is not to keep their best player, that's the priority of lesser teams.

19 Jul 2017 13:43:57
Do you think Liverpool should of dropped interest in Keita a long time ago, ed002 or 001?

{Ed002's Note - I don't see why if they are keen on the player. What they did wrong was to tap him up.}

19 Jul 2017 15:57:21
I tapped me bird up a few years ago and regret it sometimes.

19 Jul 2017 16:27:27
Had we not tapped him up, would it be safe to say that a deal would of been much easier to strike?

{Ed002's Note - THEY DO NOT WANT TO SELL THE PLAYER.}

19 Jul 2017 17:10:02
Got it
Thanks man.

19 Jul 2017 18:22:09
LOL

How long a contract did you give her Davey?

Careful or she might have to play with the U23 S.

Sollanke by name, .

19 Jul 2017 14:27:26
Trent AA has played a lot in preseason. I know this isn't always an indicator but I do think JK prefers him to Clyne.

What does everyone else think?

19 Jul 2017 15:07:04
I'm sure there were a few reports last season that Klopp wasn't a big Clyne fan - whether due to performance or attitude I'm not sure.

I could see Clyne being sold, leaving Milner and TAA for RB with Flannagan around too?

19 Jul 2017 15:13:58
clyne got injured mate.

19 Jul 2017 15:16:10
I can see TAA playing against the lesser teams when we need more width in attack as he is a lot better going forward but I can see Clyne starting the bigger games like in the Champions league because he is better defensively.

19 Jul 2017 15:18:52
Clyne is injured. Won't back back until herta Berlin game.

19 Jul 2017 15:52:04
Cheers chaps, didn't know NC had an injury.

19 Jul 2017 18:27:25
TTA as good as he looks still needs to be handled properly as he is very young and could burn out.

Clyne is injured but is still number 1 at the moment, maybe Milner will cover and be a utility player.

19 Jul 2017 11:56:35
Hi eds I know you won't like this question as it sort of involves money but it's an ongoing disagreement I'm having with a friend and would love to finally get an answer.

When a player moves from one club to another, say Liverpool to Barcelona, if the player hasn't handed in a transfer request does he get paid the rest of his contract? Either off the selling CClub (liverpool) or the buying club (Barcelona? )? So if a player was on 3 million a season say, and had two years remaining prior to being sold would one of the club's have to fork out 6 million to him just because they didn't hand in a transfer request and it is the club who are terminating the contract? 😕

We were just thinking if it was the case robbie Keane must have made some amount of money thru out his career simply by ttransfers and racking up all his contracts due to him!

Would really love if u could put the debate to bed for us.

{Ed002's Note - Regardless of whether he asks for a move or not, he does not get his contract paid off. He gets 5% of the transfer fee if he does not request a move.}

19 Jul 2017 12:58:09
Thanks ed that's what I was saying but the other guy was so convinced they get their wages too that I nearly started to believe it myself haha.

{Ed002's Note - No, their registration is transfered and contract cancelled. He will be paid by his new club.}

19 Jul 2017 13:10:12
I think they can get it if their contract is cancelled - maybe that is what they were thinking of - I think it was adebayor was getting paid by city for a few years after he left, even when he went to another club.

19 Jul 2017 14:11:50
Have you been shafted your 5% from Lazio Lucas and that's why your asking?

19 Jul 2017 13:43:03
I was kinda wondering as well why I seen a report when rooney was moving to Everton that united were paying a certain amount of his salary to push the move thru. Was wondering if that was because he was getting paid less to move to Everton and had to be paid the difference for his remaining years contracted to united I don't know if this was true but if it was I thought my mate might have been right about the whole thing. Seems a bit stupid since rooney was signing the contract to move for his own reasons as well as uniteds.

{Ed002's Note - No - when he left MU his contract was no longer valid. his is why we don't talk about money.}

19 Jul 2017 14:52:41
So weird, i was literally just about to ask this very question😂

Is it safe to say that if a player does not hand in a transfer request then he is very much money orientated and not that intersted in the move?

{Ed002's Note - I would not draw such a conclusion.}

19 Jul 2017 16:07:24
so ed002 why are players so reluctant to hand in transfer request? and with the money being talk about for VVd and Naby Keita even in this day and age when transfer fees have gone mad it is good money so why keep unhappy players. and do you think transfer request by any of them 2 would make any differents or is it just wasting the clubs time.

{Ed002's Note - Clubs are not obliged to accept a transfer request so it does nothing more than right off their 5% payment from the transfer fee.}

19 Jul 2017 16:31:43
At the risk of incurring the ire of Ed002.

Can a player buy out his own contract with a club and then move, as a free transfer to another? If this is possible wouldn't it always be cheaper to get a player to buy out his contract and the new club reimburse him, rather than negotiating a transfer fee?

{Ed002's Note - If he has a buy out clause, yes. Else he can do the same under the Webster Ruling if he meets the conditions. It doesn't happen of course as the player would not have the money to do that.}

19 Jul 2017 16:38:28
What happens to the players fee with a swap deal?

{Ed002's Note - The players are independently valued and that value is entered on the TMS and fees and taxes are paid accordingly.}

19 Jul 2017 16:49:35
Players are hesitant to hand in transfer requests because experience says they don't need to to secure the move they want. They want there cake and to eat it.

19 Jul 2017 17:18:35
Cheers ed 😘.

19 Jul 2017 18:43:56
Is it different when a club sacks a manager?
I read that Rodgers and Hodgsen got a huge payment each after they left.

19 Jul 2017 22:25:48
Sacking is a different issue. Unless you do something that breaches your contract you are entitled to the full value of your contract if it is ended early.

19 Jul 2017 22:25:48
Sacking is a different issue. Unless you do something that breaches your contract you are entitled to the full value of your contract if it is ended early.

19 Jul 2017 10:52:21
Eds. If you have time can you explain what has happened with FFP? If i understand corrrectly it's been modified which then allows smaller clubs like Everton (random name honestly) to spend money to catch the bigger established teams. Thanks.

{Ed002's Note - No. Everton are spending money from their income and are still bound by FFP. The change was to allow clubs to notify EUFA (by December 31) that they have additional income to spend the following summer and that they will be in breach for that one year. To date only a handful of clubs have taken advantage of this change.}

19 Jul 2017 10:50:52
Just been reading although the 2nd bid has been turned down keita's reps are apparently in Hong Kong for discussions!
Any eds heard anything? Or is it likely bs and it ain't happening.
Other reports suggest kondogbia could be an alternative but could be recycled news as rumours state his club have accepted a bid from Valencia.

{Ed002's Note - If they are they are then the ground is getting very muddy underfoot. Liverpool should shun any discussions with them and make it clear that they have done so.}

19 Jul 2017 12:42:13
I wish Liverpool would move on from Kieta. It's getting embarrassing now. They don't want to sell and no transfer request has been made. Just move on to other alternatives and forget about him.

19 Jul 2017 12:38:24
I'm pretty sure I read somewhere that Keita has a release clause which can only be activated at the end of next year, this true? If we don't come to terms how likely is it they'll lose him for considerably less next year? I get RBL's principles just seems like daft business to reject a £70m bid and possibly lose him to Bayern for half that fee in 12 months.

19 Jul 2017 12:54:30
It is only daft if you're relying on transfer fees to pay the bills.
RBL are not relying on that money coming in.

19 Jul 2017 13:02:15
Release clause only applies to German clubs, not us, per Ed002.

{Ed002's Note - Without knowing the terms it may well be a termination clause. But for now it is unimportant.}

19 Jul 2017
The real time live chat page is open for today's Liverpool match at the below link for you to talk to each other during the match
Liverpool Live Chat page

19 Jul 2017 11:44:17
Time to walk away from Keita transfer. I am sure we will survive.

19 Jul 2017 11:50:29
I had a quid scan of your user name and for a split second thought it was Alansbarnet! What a turnaround if it was!

19 Jul 2017 12:38:38
Agree with Alibaba, forget Keita until Jan transfer window.
Get him for his release clause amount, play in the league and domestic cups for the remaining 20 or so games. Leipzig will be in Europa league and Mid table and will get rid. We will get an mid season injection of new blood. Let's just concentrate on a central defender before season starts or before window closes. Next season I believe the window will close when the season starts, which makes sense.

19 Jul 2017 11:19:14
Are Keita and VVD the only 2 players left in the world? It's time to move on too plan B IMO.

19 Jul 2017 11:53:40
No course not but they're the 2 ideal players that would suit our team at this moment in time.

19 Jul 2017 12:07:13
No they're not, haven't you heard of Andrew Robertson?

19 Jul 2017 11:28:11
How many times did we reject Man City's bids for Sterling until we got what we wanted? Why shouldn't RBL do the same? Can't believe people saying we should give up now. I still think it will happen. Just need to reach a figure both are happy with, it's called negotiation for a reason.

19 Jul 2017 11:44:07
This isn't a bunch of ruthless supplement salesmen trying to push cod liver oil on 90 year olds.

Its Liverpool FC, notorious for their poor transfer negotiation skills.

3 times in the last year we have faced disciplinary action for breaking rules, what makes you think we will succeed in negotiating with somebody that clearly doesn't want to sell?

To me it seems we have more chance of having a bid for the Queen's knickers accepted now.

19 Jul 2017 11:52:22
Cue media frenzy of Liverpool tapping up Her Maj's chief knicker fluffer.

19 Jul 2017 12:13:23
kirkbyred:
Reminds me of Alan Partridge trying to negotiate a new contract for his voice over videos.

Lady: Alan, I am simply not negotiating on your fee
Alan: Well I am
Lady: Well you'll be negotiating on your own
Alan: So be it!
Lady: well that doesn't work
Alan (shrugs)

😁 Liverpool are negotiating with someone who is not going to sell. Like the definition of insanity.

19 Jul 2017 12:32:57
not sure that we need a pair of passion killers .

19 Jul 2017 10:58:29
Liverpool have had their improved bid of £66m rejected for naby keita, looks dead in the water now then.

19 Jul 2017 10:43:51
Being reported now that Liverpool are interested in Thomas Muller of Bayern, which is surely a load of BS. Or we are selling both Couts and Sturridge.

19 Jul 2017 10:49:56
And people are actually stupid enough to believe this nonsense!
The whole budget being blown on a player who plays in the same position as one of our bonafide starters in Firmino? The least the media could do is put in 1% effort in their shabby work.

19 Jul 2017 10:55:05
He has been mediocre for the past two seasons! Bayern has no interest in selling him and he won't move anyways!

19 Jul 2017 11:13:17
Behave Harry.
Muller and mediocre do not go hand in hand. He is a world class player from whom Ancelotti has no idea how to get the best out of.
Fantastic player but not what LFC need right now.

19 Jul 2017 11:28:31
Yeah last thing we need is fantastic players! Especially ones we're not after!

19 Jul 2017 11:24:18
@indian

He has been mediocre form last two seasons! He is not even getting a sniff in the first team! He is like Firmino, works very hard score very few. Unfortunately they have a world class striker now who score in abundance!

19 Jul 2017 14:02:13
It's coming from Bild which isn't the most reliable.

19 Jul 2017 10:39:53
Thomas Muller, that's a new name in the mix today!

19 Jul 2017 13:45:41
He wouldn't fit into Klopp's tactics.

19 Jul 2017 10:18:03
I really hope this bid rejection, if it is true, isn't the end of any chance of signing Keita. Really think he would make a difference and plus stupidly got my hopes up. I can't see anyone else available if he doesn't come who'd be just as good, but you never know.

19 Jul 2017 10:52:00
I'd go upto 70 million including add ons. RBl may want a major portion of the transfer fee upfront which is a bigger problem with this deal. Keita really is going to have to put in a TR or I can see us abandoning his pursuit totally. And there is next to no chance of us signing keita next summer, so Klopp and FSG now have a big decision on their hands.

19 Jul 2017 10:57:10
I would bid anything that will land Keita. He will give us many more CL places in future something for which we are actually spending today!

19 Jul 2017 09:51:45
Hi eds,

Do you think with the latest bid being rejected is a move from RBL for their fans, to convince them that they're "trying" to keep him. I personally believe that if £70million is offered they will sell as that's what they value him at. Penny for your thoughts on this?

19 Jul 2017 10:09:58
They want over 60% if the total transfer fee to be paid upfront which we aren't able to! Either we convince them to budge down or we move on! We have the money hence we put in a bid of £70 mill!

{Ed025's Note - they should give quik quid a ring.. :)

19 Jul 2017 09:42:44
Another improved offer for kieta knocked back😢. I think listening to their owner talking he's not going anywhere this summer. time to move on to another car dealership I think 👍.

19 Jul 2017 10:08:07
If it's not happening we need to move on asap.

19 Jul 2017 09:12:21
Paul Joyce football correspondent for the Times has just reported we've had a second bid for Keita Rejected, region of 66mil. If we fail with this signing, I'd love the club to sign Leon Goretska, year left on his contract and valued the same in terms of price. Just a thought, don't shoot us down 😂.

19 Jul 2017 09:34:43
He would end up at Bayern. He is great going forward but lacks the defensive aspect of the game! I would love the club to move in for Kovacic. He has played the deepe role at Inter and is an excellent passer of the ball.
For the first time I feel sad and sorry for Klopp! He is not getting the player he wants!

19 Jul 2017 13:51:09
Kovacic was very average in Serie A and has failed miserably at Real. Personally I don't think he's in the same bracket Keita as he doesn't really apply himself.

19 Jul 2017 05:17:29
Any one else really excited about next season?
Or indeed this Asia cup match with palace?

Win, lose or draw this season I reckon we are going to play some really exciting football.

Injuries permitting I can really see us bagging loads of goals and some real classy demolition of teams.

19 Jul 2017 05:54:23
I'm certainly excited about the Asia PL Trophy games - I have tickets for tonight and also match-side with the Liverpool management/ ambassadors on Saturday!

19 Jul 2017 06:11:27
Yep, sky box set to record but should hopefully catch it live. Interested to see this third kit they're playing in today. Looking forward to seeing the fittest Sturridge ever, according to Klopp, also Salah of course.

3-0 is my prediction.

19 Jul 2017 06:39:38
I watched Salah against Wigan, he ran round the outside of their full back like he was standing still a few times, and he was no slouch either.

19 Jul 2017 07:03:02
I heard the pitch is terrible and tilts hope there are no injuries to any team member. All I care infact!

19 Jul 2017 07:34:33
I'm in Australia so looking forward to it live at about 8pm. Beer o'clock me thinks.

19 Jul 2017 09:21:47
I'll be going to the Asia trophy match and sitting 10 rows from the front so I'm definitely going to enjoy it!

Wearing my all new YNWA 96 home kit to support my team XD

Kopchu.

19 Jul 2017 00:28:03
I know you eds don't want to talk about money and transfer fees, and I understand that. Numbers just confuse the readers, they don't show the whole picture and to be honest we should not really care about the money spent by a very rich investment group. But since the fees are apparently more complecs then what we think, could one of the eds give us a bit more information on how transfer fees work? I for one think it would be an interresting read.

{Ed002's Note - I do appreciate that that the Liverpool fans are far from the smartest on the block, but yet again it might be an apt time to explain again about the cost of transfers (excluding wages). What is paid by the buying club would typically include:
(a) Transfer fee - the big number.
(b) Any levy applied by the local FA – 5% for the EPL.
(c) Tax due on the transfer fee – typically this will be VAT (at varying rates across Europe) some or all of which should be reclaimable.
(d) Agent fees – this may be to one or more agents (as an example, Liverpool have spent £40M plus VAT on agent fees over the past three years leading to this window).
(e) Tax due on the agent fees – typically this is VAT at the local rate where the agent bills from – it is not reclaimable.
(f) Intermediary fees – this may be to one or more sponging leeches (what do you mean you have a super agent?) .
(g) Tax due on the Intermediary fees – typically this is VAT at the local rate where the Intermediary bills from – it is not reclaimable.
(h) Signing on fee to the player (possibly including non-reclaimable VAT if the player is VAT registered).
(i) Legal fees.
(j) VAT on legal fees which is reclaimable.
(k) Moving/relocation costs for the player.
(l) VAT on moving/relocation costs which is reclaimable.
(m) Paying up insurance costs to the selling club (sometimes waived).

What is paid by the selling club would typically include:
(a) If the player is under 24 and moving between different football associations, a Solidarity contribution paid to his previous clubs responsible for his training - this is 5% of the transfer fee received (apportioned 5% of the contribution for each year from the season of his 12th birthday to the season of his 15th birthday and 10% of the contribution for each season from his 16th to 23rd birthdays).
(b) If the player moves to a higher category club (all clubs being categorised 1 to 4) then Training Compensation is due for the period of age 12 to 21. Compensation is due to all clubs when the player turns from amateur to professional and thereafter only when he moves from his final training club to another club. The initial training compensation is levied at the training costs associated with Category 4 clubs. The subsequent figure is agreed between the sides or tribuneral if necessary.
(c) Any monies owed to the player if he did not request a transfer – again this is 5% of the transfer fee received.
(d) Any monies owed to the player in terms of his contract (typically outstanding owed wages (not future wages) and bonuses).
(e) Any money contractually due to a previous club as the result of a sell-on clause.

19 Jul 2017 01:27:13
Oww my head hurts.

19 Jul 2017 06:47:57
Its understandable, but now do people see why the eds don't get into it when people ask about the transfer fee for a specific player?
I have seen this very explanation each summer for at least the last 3 years, and I am sure a reader will manage to persuade an end to reply with it again next season, after every tom dick an harry has asked about the transfer fee for various players again for 6 weeks at the end of the season.
Far too complex to go to that level of detail on every player, and as far as I know a lot of it is left undisclosed by clubs now anyway.

{Ed025's Note - your spot on andy..

19 Jul 2017 07:07:51
In other words, there's a lot to it.

19 Jul 2017 07:37:08
To hard to see why anyone really cares. The club decides if the total cost is right for its budget, the selling club decides if the deal is right for them to let the player go, and if it is right for both a deal is done. Then we as fans see the outcome on the pitch either as to whether a new player fits in, gels with the team and has an impact, or as a selling club as to whether the player's absence is a negative and the money really was not used to good effect!

19 Jul 2017 09:19:04
Transfer fees are not important, that's money which is just circulating within the game.
Agent fees and player wages are a worry as that is money lost from the game.

19 Jul 2017 01:02:21
Thank you ed002, really appreciate the elaboration! I understand transfer fee is a bit misused term since transfers involve so much more than just money one way and a player the other.
cheers and keep up the good work!

19 Jul 2017 02:20:18
Thanks Ed2, you're always kind. So normally the "transfer fee" announced publicly (e. g. 5M for Lucas to Lazio) is only (a) or (a) - (m)?

Btw, just to let you guys know I come from HK and can't wait to see Liverpool in the stadium tonite!

{Ed002's Note - The fee becomes known when entered on the TMS.}

19 Jul 2017 02:51:43
Ed002 has sabali.

19 Jul 2017 06:23:59
That selling club fees Ed, is that something that hits the first club which sells a player who falls under those circumstances? Or does this continue to qualify?

In case I'm waffling - if we sold Grujic in two seasons time to Milan for £30m say. We'd probably pay those selling club fees you list. If Milan then sold him the following season for a higher value cause he continued to improve, would they also have to pay fees too as he would be under 24 still?

{Ed002's Note - Any which are due - so a [ercentage for the time at LFC.}

19 Jul 2017 11:43:36
Cut and paste that long answer to any furher questions on transfers.

Anyone who read, understands that anand has another question probably deserves an answer.

It shows you how some transfers can be protracted and how aome never make it over the line.

Take VVD for example, imagine all the above stages to get through and only 2 out of 3 parties want it to happen.