Liverpool reportedly chasing Schalke’s Ozan Kabak ahead of January window
Last Updated: October 25, 2020 2:34 pm
Long plans
Despite conflicting reports, Liverpool are supposedly hoping to acquire the services of Ozan Kabak this January. The Turkish international has been on the radar of the Reds for a significant period of time, but an injury to Virgil van Dijk has accelerated their plans.
Kabak, a 20-year-old Turkey international, has long proven an impressive presence for Schalke. This comes despite his side having the worst defensive record in the Bundesliga – 19 goals conceded leaves the German club in 17th with 1 point from 5 games.
.@RMCsport reporting this evening (during their #LIVSHU match commentary) that Liverpool are set to make Schalke an offer for Ozan Kabak, and want the deal tied up before the Jan window opens. AC Milan also interested, Schalke would want somewhere between €30m and €40m.
— Chris Williams (@Chris78Williams) October 24, 2020
Kabak joined Schalke from Stuttgart just 6 months on from his arrival from Galatasaray. Die Knappen opted to activate the €15 million release clause inserted in the youngster’s contract.
At over 6 foot, Kabak is a commanding presence, strong passer and composed. The €30m – €40m estimation of his value is within the reach of Liverpool, who require reinforcement with their Dutch stalwart out of action.
Contrary to reports
Previously, David Ornstein of the Athletic reported that it looked unlikely that Liverpool would dip into the January transfer market to reinforce the club’s backline. Fabinho played alongside Joe Gomez in the 2-1 win over Sheffield United on Saturday.
Ornstein explained: “As far as I know that level of conversation is yet to take place internally. They wont make a snap call on the matter. They’re not ruling out a January signing but as things stand I don’t sense it’s likely.”
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 17: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT )Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool collides with Everton’s goalkeeper Jordan Pickford during the Premier League match between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park on October 17, 2020 in Liverpool, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Now, though, it appears as though a winter swoop for Kabak could well be on the cards.
When drawn on the future of the Fabinho-Gomez partnership, Jurgen Klopp recently had the following to say: “As I said for the Fabinho and Joe pairing, they need to get used to each other and the full-backs need to get used to them.”
“The more stability you have in this line, the better. We never had that really, especially one position was always with a lot of changes. They will fight together, there is no doubt about that.”
Liverpool will play FC Midtjylland on Tuesday the 27th of October in the Champions League group stage.
See also: Leicester complete Cengiz Under loan signing from Roma / Reportedly no obligation to buy
Thomas Partey highlights Arteta’s importance in Arsenal switch
This article was edited by Conor Laird.
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