Liverpool's Bundesliga target now 'open' to move

Suraj Radia

• 15 Mar 2023 13:48 GMT
• 2 min read

Mainz midfielder Anton Stach is reportedly open to leaving the German side this summer, having been linked with a move to Liverpool in recent times.

Stach is entering the final 12 months of his contract with Mainz and, while the club are thought to have an option to extend it for another year, the 24-year-old may look to take advantage of the interest in him.

Tottenham, West Ham and Newcastle have also been linked to the German, who is eyeing a move in order to increase his chances of getting selected for the national team, with Euro 2024 set to be hosted in his home country.

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Stach has been capped twice by the German team and has impressed for Mainz since joining them in 2021, scoring once and grabbing three assists to help his side push for European qualification in the Bundesliga this season.

A defensive midfielder who has played further up field this season, Stach could command a fee in excess of €15 million this summer, with teams taking note due to his versatility and ability to take players on in midfield.

Liverpool target midfield rebuild

Liverpool are planning to strengthen significantly in the middle of the park this summer, eyeing moves for multiple players, although Jude Bellingham is top of their shortlist.

The Reds have reportedly set aside a specific budget for Bellingham, meaning they could sign him and another midfielder such as Stach, although they face competition from Real Madrid and Manchester City for the Dortmund man.

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The likes of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, James Milner and Naby Keita could all leave in the summer when their contracts expire, while Arthur Melo is expected to return to Juventus after his loan.

Although Bellingham is the club’s priority, Liverpool are also interested in Moises Caicedo of Brighton and Chelsea star Mason Mount, both of whom will likely require significant outlays.

With Declan Rice also being considered, a move for Stach is perhaps further down Liverpool’s list of priorities but the German could represent a value deal to add depth if the Reds opt to restructure their midfield this summer.