Five in five out at Liverpool for Jurgen Klopp in January?

Jurgen Klopp’s imminent appointment at Liverpool will leave everyone from postmen to journalists in a state of wild, excitable speculation about who the charismatic German coach might possibly sign.

However, Liverpool, who are 9/4 with Coral to finish in a Champions League place this season, will need to trim their squad considerably if they are going to strengthen. As a result, we review five possible outs and ins for the Reds, either in January or this summer.

Outgoings

Lucas Leiva
With an array of players in his position, most recently James Milner, along with the rise of Klopp’s compatriot Emre Can, it is likely that the Brazilian could be first out of the door, especially if the former Borussia Dortmund coach has his eye on another deep-lying midfielder.

Mamadou Sakho
The French centre half has dissected opinion since arriving at Liverpool. There is no doubt that the Reds have struggled defensively and the former PSG man has looked lost at times, despite obvious athleticism.

Jose Enrique
Third-choice at left back, the Spaniard must be allowed to leave, with his homeland a likely destination. He can still do a job, though with Alberto Moreno and talented youngster Joe Gomez in front of him, the exit door must be beckoning.

Joe Allen
One of Rodgers’ first signings, the former Swansea City player is one of many midfielders currently fighting for a place at Liverpool and could be moved on. He would still be a great recruit for most Premier League sides, and he clearly needs a new challenge.

Simon Mignolet
Perhaps controversial, though the Belgian stopper is too inconsistent and has failed to forge a firm understanding with his rearguard, which has left Liverpool exposed all too often.

Incomings

Bernd Leno
One of Europe’s upcoming goalkeepers, Bayer Leverkusen’s Leno would be a great option, though would be unlikely to come cheap. However, at just 23, he has plenty of years left and the draw of playing under Klopp might be too much to resist.

Jonas Hector
A high-energy left back, who can cross and tackle, should Klopp want a more balanced option than Moreno, Cologne’s Hector could be an option. With Gomez able to play anywhere in the backline, the Reds could accommodate the 25-year-old, if they sold Enrique.

Nicolas N’Koulou
Marseille’s Cameroon international centre back has been linked to clubs across Europe, and could well be the kind of defender the Reds need. With a commanding presence, the 25-year-old can be a success in the Premier League.

Grzegorz Krychowiak
While the Poland anchorman might be too much of a luxury, and with his side Sevilla in the Champions League, it would be the draw of playing under Klopp which is likely to be the only thing that convinces him. However, Liverpool are still a big club with some talented players.

Domenico Berardi
Unlucky to have had to pull out of the latest Italy squad with a muscular injury following a senior call-up, Berardi is a prodigious talent and, at just 21, he has a great future. Able to play wide right or in attack, he would add another dimension to the Reds.