'Liverpool looking for Fekir alternative' - McManaman expecting Klopp to land Coutinho cover

Liverpool are looking for an alternative to Nabil Fekir, claims Steve McManaman, with the Reds still in need of creative cover for the departed Philippe Coutinho.

Having parted with the Brazil international during the January transfer window, those at Anfield were forced to make do until the end of the 2017-18 campaign.

They fared admirably enough, with Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane leading the charge towards a top-four finish in the Premier League and the Champions League final.

Jurgen Klopp has, however, been exploring creative options this summer – with a move for Lyon playmaker Fekir shelved following medical issues – and a big-money deal is expected at some stage.

Former Reds winger McManaman told The Express: “The fact that he’s looking at that position suggests that he wants someone.

“So I presume he’ll try and find a replacement. A number 10 type player.

“When Coutinho went, I know they haven’t missed him because the front three have played so well, but I think it showed that if one of them gets injured they certainly need back up.

“They’ve got [Adam] Lallana, but the fact they’re looking at that position, an eight or a 10, shows where Jurgen wants to bring somebody in.”

While expecting Liverpool to bolster their ranks in the midfield department, McManaman also believes a new No. 1 will be brought in.

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Loris Karius’ disastrous showing in the Champions League final, even when taking a concussion into account, has further highlighted the need for a reliable option between the sticks to be found.

Ex-England international McManaman added: “I think Jurgen will look at the goalkeeper position, definitely.

“The fact there’s been so many rumours about [Jan] Oblak, Alisson, [Thibaut] Courtois, whoever it is, I think it’s an area they have been looking at and will be looking at.

"Anywhere you can spend on the team right through - central defenders, he’s bought midfielders, wants a number 10, that spine of the team, I think managers will look at players who are available and if they can improve the team you have to look at it to be honest.”

Liverpool have been linked with a number of goalkeeping options, with the Reds eager to make additions as soon as possible after discovering their schedule for the 2018-19 Premier League season.