Liverpool Legend Says Thiago Alcantara 'Doesn't Fit' Klopp's System As New Prospect Emerges

Liverpool legend Steve Nicol thinks Thiago Alcantara isn't a good fit for Jurgen Klopp's style despite reports linking the Bayern Munich star to a move to Anfield. But apart from pursuing Alcantara, the Reds are also monitoring Lyon's Houssem Aouar as one of their newest prospects.

Despite entering the twilight years of his career, Alcantara is still viewed as a valuable prospect for Liverpool. Talks of Alcantara joining Klopp’s side have been progressing in recent weeks, with sources even saying that both parties are close to reaching an agreement.

The Bayern Munich midfielder has proven that he can still contribute inside the pitch. However, with the amount of money involved in his rumored move and considering the possible complications of adding the playmaker to Klopp's highly-energetic squad, Nicol thinks Alcantara just isn’t suitable for the Reds despite being a great player.

“I think he’s a great footballer and he can pass the ball,” the former Liverpool star told ESPN U.K. of Thiago. “Unfortunately, he just doesn’t fit the mold of what Liverpool do in the middle of the park right now.”

“Yes, he’s got ability, but he also has to have dynamism, he has to have legs, he has to close down quickly, he’s got to have energy,” Nicol added. “Those are things that all those players in the middle of the park for Liverpool have. That isn’t Alcantara.”

Instead of the Premier League, Nicol suggested that Liverpool could utilize Alcantara in other leagues such as the FA Cup.

“But at the same time, having a player like that to bring on, he can play in the FA Cup, the League Cup, you can bring him on and give him half an hour to pass the ball around if that’s what you need,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Premier League champs are also considering Lyon midfield sensation Aouar, someone significantly different from Alcantara in many aspects, as a possible option, RMC Sport reported.

Similar to Alcantara, Liverpool is positive about Aouar’s situation. And despite not having a strong interest in selling Aouar, Lyon has become open to the idea that the 22-year-old may leave this summer, reportedly expecting offers of around £44 million ($57.5 million) for the youngster.

Despite its “interest,” however, Liverpool has not yet made contact with Lyon for a possible deal, RMC Sport said.

Unlike the young and healthy Aouar, Alcantara has had 17 reported injuries in his last four seasons alone.

Some reports noted that it would be “surprising” if the 29-year-old officially joins Klopp’s squad. The move “would go against everything” Liverpool is aiming for, considering the club has been evidently focused on signing durable players who are also at or close to reaching the pinnacle of their careers, the report added.