Liverpool may need to let several players depart Anfield this summer to maximize their financial hand in the transfer market ahead of a pivotal window.
There is no doubt that changes are afoot at Anfield, with several first-team players likely to be heading for the exit door this summer. We look at the players who could free up crucial funds for Liverpool this summer.
Of course, the major problem areas for Jürgen Klopp this summer are in midfield, where several additions are likely required as well as the center of defense, where back-ups may be sought.
While Liverpool will have funds to spend this summer, their rumored top targets will not come cheap, and it is more than likely that the Reds will look to move some players on to offset the outlay which will likely be needed.
A host of names have been mooted as possible candidates to be moved on but we have focused on the players who have been widely reported to be available for transfer this summer.
In addition to this, we have also included players who may depart on a free transfer who could free up some much-needed funds when it comes to Liverpool’s wage bill.
Clearly, barring Roberto Firmino, every name on the list below could well remain at Anfield, but one would also posit that players that are still to renew their current contracts and those who have expressed a desire to leave are probably likely to move on.
Anyway, without further ado, here are the players who could leave Liverpool this summer.
Nat Phillips — Sell
Nat Phillips has been a good servant for Liverpool since coming through the club’s academy but at 26 years old, he will likely feel now is the right time to seek first-team football elsewhere. TransferMarkt value him at $6.5m (£6.2m/€6m) and it would not be a surprise to see him depart if a bid is forthcoming. (Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
Rhys Williams — Sell
Rhys Williams is another player who will be remembered fondly, given his displays in the 2020/21 season but he may wish to seek permanent first-team football elsewhere. On loan at Blackpool this term, he could be an astute buy for a Championship club at TransferMarkt’s valuation of $3.2m (£2.6m/€3m). (Photo by Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Joël Matip — Sell
Joël Matip will forever be remembered for his part in Liverpool’s most recent Champions League and Premier League triumphs, with his immaculate defensive displays making him popular with the supporters. However, with a year left on his current contract, a bid in line with his $17m (£14m/€16m) TransferMarkt valuation may prove hard to refuse given his recent injury record and form. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
James Milner — Release
James Milner has been an outstanding mainstay in Jürgen Klopp’s squad and will go down as a modern-day great when he departs Anfield. At 37 years old, his longevity is a testament to his professionalism, and another season or two as a regular starter for another Premier League club could beckon. Getting his $75k (£60k/€68k) weekly wage off the bill may free up some funds. (Photo by Will Palmer/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)
