Liverpool’s five best transfers under Jurgen Klopp

Jacque Talbot

• Updated: 20 May 2024 12:50 BST
• 4 min read

Liverpool evolved into one of the most formidable teams in world football under Jurgen Klopp.

Earlier this year, the German boss shocked the football world by announcing that he would be leaving the club at the end of the season. In a heartfelt video via the club’s official channel, Klopp spoke of his ‘love’ for the side he’s been at since 2015.

With a huge number of accolades behind him, it’s clear that Klopp is a world-class coach. But another key factor in his success has been the ability to identify and secure top-notch talent in the transfer market. Here, we take a closer look at Liverpool's five best transfers under the German maestro, in no particular order.

Mohamed Salah - 2017 (£36.5m)

In the summer of 2017, Klopp pulled off a masterstroke by bringing in Mohamed Salah from AS Roma for £36.5million. The move was lampooned at the time, with many saying that the Reds overpaid.

Little did anyone know that the Egyptian winger would go on to become one of the most prolific goal-scorers in Liverpool's history. With a combination of blistering pace and finishing, Salah is often challenging for the Golden Boot, year after year and even while not playing as an outright No.9. In short, Salah has become a Premier League legend and one of the best wingers to ever play the modern game.

Virgil van Dijk - 2018 (£75m)

In January 2018, after a long, drawn-out saga, Liverpool shattered transfer records for defenders by signing Virgil van Dijk from Southampton. His impact has been ever-lasting, the Dutchman is widely considered to be one of the best centre-backs to ever play.

His leadership, aerial prowess, and composure at the back transformed Liverpool's defense into one of the best in the world, leading them to Premier League and Champions League glory. Van Dijk has seen his name alongside the likes of John Terry and Rio Ferdinand for his utter brilliance in a Reds top.

Alisson Becker - 2018 (£66.8m)

In the same transfer window that brought Van Dijk to Liverpool, Klopp brought in another key player by the way of Alisson Becker from AS Roma. Alisson's arrival provided the solid foundation Liverpool needed at the back, the club had been struggling with their goalkeeping department for years.

With his exceptional distribution skills, along with his second-to-none fortitude in 1v1 situations, Alisson is another who can consider himself not only a Liverpool legend but a Premier League one.

Andrew Robertson - 2017 (£8m)

Pound for pound, Andy Robertson has been Liverpool’s best signing. Arriving from Hull City in the summer of 2017, it was a move that hardly sent shockwaves through the football landscape, but for just £8m it’s proved to be a masterstroke.

The Scottish left-back's tireless work rate, his ability to get up and down the pitch, and defensive output, have made him a crucial facet of Klopp’s success. Robertson has, without doubt, earned a spot among the club's all-time great left-backs.

Sadio Mane - 2016 (£35m)

Sadio Mane's arrival in the summer of 2016 was another that saw a sharp rise of eyebrows at the time. What many didn’t know, was that his arrival marked the beginning of Liverpool's resurgence under Klopp. The Senegalese forward was signed from Southampton after a blistering spell there.

At Anfield, his ability just grew and grew - he became one of the most prolific attackers in the world. He made up part of a devastating attacking trio, alongside Salah and Roberto Firmino. Mane is the only one to make the list who is no longer with Liverpool, the veteran now playing for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.