Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has recently been back in the news by admitting that he turned downs teams in Europe to join Major League Soccer side LA Galaxy according to Goal.
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This has reminded Reds fans that the Anfield icon will need to be replaced this summer, and as good as James Milner is, he isn’t in the same bracket as the 35-year-old.
Here are six players that Brendan Rodgers could sign in order to do this…
6) Mateo Kovacic, Inter Milan
Kovacic featured as a deep-lying playmaker last season, much like Gerrard did, but has also been known to play further forward.
The 21-year-old is very similar to the former England international, with great passing ability and able to contribute defensively.
Could he be the perfect replacement? Liverpool appear to think so, and have been linked with the midfielder [Express].
Rodgers will have to fight off Bayern Munich if he wants the youngster though, according to Eurosport.
5) Hernanes, Inter Milan
If the Reds don’t manage to get Kovacic, then they could go after his teammate according to the Daily Express.
The Brazilian is a similar player but, at 30, is less of a long-term successor than Kovacic, although this experience my be needed to fill Gerrard’s boots.
4) Asier Illarramendi, Real Madrid
The 25-year-old has never looked comfortable with the Liga BBVA giants, making just 12 starts last time round.
The Daily Star has linked the Merseyside outfit to the player as a result. As a proper defensive midfielder, the Spaniard would bring more solidity if less input going forward.
3) Radja Nainggolan, AS Roma
Although the player seems keen on a move to Real Madrid, the Reds may be able to get their man if Los Blancos don’t look to take advantage, reported the Daily Express.
A fierce competitor, the Belgian would bring a lot to the dressing room after their captain’s departure.
2) Arturo Vidal, Juventus
Although there are reports that Real Madrid have agreed personal terms with the Chile international, Liverpool have also been linked according to the Daily Star.
Vidal is undoubtedly a great player, but could he be tempted to play for a non-Champions League side?
1) Jordan Henderson, Liverpool
He looks set to be the new Reds skipper, so why not take up the mantle of replacing Gerrard ability-wise as well? Unlike the other players listed here, Henderson is already on the club’s books and may be a ready-made replacement.
However, were Rodgers to take this route it would be greatly uninspiring for fans.