Marko Grujic is set to re-join Hertha Berlin on loan for a second successive season, according to German publication Kicker.
The 23-year-old, who was Jurgen Klopp’s first signing as the manager of the Reds, scored five times and assisted once last season, and Hertha made it clear that they wanted to retain his services early on.
Earlier in the season, coach Pal Dardai claimed Grujic was the best midfielder the German club had seen in two decades. Hertha, though, would not be able to afford a permanent transfer at the valuation the Reds have for him.
Grujic will be 24 in April, so if he does move on loan again, it would appear to be unlikely he has a long-term future at Anfield, although he will be given every chance by Klopp, who still rates him highly.
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Grujic has all the qualities that Klopp looks for in a player – physicality, intelligence and awareness from the middle of the pitch – but there is a long line of midfielders that the German can select from.
Breaking into the mix is a tough ask, although he did show a glimpse of his talents against Barcelona in pre-season a couple of years ago. Show that level consistently and he would definitely have a chance.
Another temporary move could help drive the price up for Grujic if nothing else – although we wouldn’t want to write him off completely just yet.