Liverpool can finally sign player Jurgen Klopp was desperate for the club to buy

Leon Goretzka is available on a free transfer this summer, offering Liverpool the opportunity to finally sign the midfielder Jurgen Klopp pursued nearly a decade ago. The 31-year-old officially departed Bayern Munich on Tuesday after his contract expired, concluding an eight-year career with the Bundesliga champions.

Klopp had previously targeted Goretzka during his tenure as Liverpool manager, having become well acquainted with the German midfielder's talents through their encounters in the Bundesliga. However, Goretzka ultimately rejected the opportunity to move to Merseyside, choosing instead to join Bayern Munich.

In a 2020 interview, Goretzka acknowledged that Liverpool had been a genuine consideration in his decision-making process. He stated: "They were a consideration of course. They're a great club and their development since Kloppo came has been amazing. We're all a little proud of him winning the title. But I took a long time making my decision and I was 100 per cent sure that Bayern was the right move for me."

Goretzka's decision proved prudent, as he amassed 17 major honours during his eight years at Bayern, including six Bundesliga titles. However, this impressive club record has not translated to international success, with Germany failing to progress beyond the round of 32 in the last three World Cup tournaments.

Klopp's circumstances have evolved considerably since leaving Liverpool in May 2024 after a nine-year spell. The 59-year-old is now the frontrunner to replace Julian Nagelsmann as Germany manager following the national team's recent World Cup elimination to Paraguay on penalties. Currently serving as Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull, Klopp could be tempted back into management should the German Football Association make an approach. His appointment would represent a major coup for the DFB, bringing renewed tactical expertise and optimism to the national programme.