Reunion show: 3 Dortmund players Jurgen Klopp could sign in January
Liverpool's new manager Jurgen Klopp will have his first chance to make changes at Anfield this January, bringing in new players as he shapes the Reds to his vision. Some of Liverpool's needs might just be found at his old stomping grounds, Borussia Dortmund, where his relationship with the players remains in tip-top shape.
Here are 3 players Klopp might look to bring out of Dortmund to bolster Liverpool's ranks:
Neven Subotic
In an attempt to shore up the Liverpool backline, expectations might point toward Mats Hummels, but Klopp could instead turn to another reliable central defender from Dortmund. Unlike Hummels, Neven Subotic never made the headlines, didn't garner big-money attention, and isn't considered a star at the club.
But his importance in Dortmund's title-winning, Champions League-competing days cannot be understated. Subotic has lived in Hummels' shadow for long enough and could become a hero at Anfield. He'd be significantly cheaper than Hummels, too.
Ilkay Gundogan
Liverpool's midfield has a big, Steven Gerrard-shaped hole in the middle, and while the club legend's iconic status won't be replaced easily, there is a ready-made footballing equivalent in Ilkay Gundogan.
Here is a two-way midfielder who offers help in maintaining a defensive shape as well as a strong ability to dribble and pass. His vision is hurt slightly by his lack of pace, but in the 25-year-old, Liverpool would find a suitable midfield option with a long-term future.
Roman Weidenfeller
One of Liverpool's most pressing needs is between the sticks, as Simon Mignolet looks set to lose his starting role. Roman Weidenfeller represents a chance for Klopp to bring in a player with a wealth of top-flight experience at an opportune moment.
The 35-year-old has been Borussia Dortmund's first-choice goalkeeper for the last decade, but the emergence of Roman Burki has pushed Weidenfeller out of the starting lineup this season. As such, the German's not just a familiar option; he's also likely looking for a starting role.