We’ve been repeatedly linked to a number of centre-backs over the last few months, with a new signing at one point seemingly only a matter of time. It’s now being reported that Jurgen Klopp may not be planning to bring a new centre-back in though, with his decision likely to depend on the outcome of Mamadou Sakho’s failed drug test ruling, as reported by the Echo.
As the report suggests, Sakho was provisionally banned for 30 days after testing positive for a banned substance during the tail end of last season. During the hearing the Frenchman questioned whether the fat-burning substance should even be on the banned list however, and consequently sparked a UEFA inquest.
They are yet to reveal their decision though, so as it stands Klopp has no idea whether he’ll have Sakho available for the start of the season. His movements in the transfer market will apparently hinge on this decision, so hopefully we get an answer soon.
Even with Sakho available we could arguably do with another centre-back signing this summer, with reports claiming that Martin Skrtel will soon be out the door (via IBT). Klopp may be looking to give one or two of our younger players a chance in 2016/17 though, while Joel Matip can play centre-back and in midfield of course.
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With UEFA opting not to extend the 30 day provisional ban, in the current state Sakho is eligible to start the campaign. This may mean we see the centre-back links dry up a little, but we don’t know what the final decision will be so we need to make sure we keep our options open and have targets identified and ready if we need them.