Given the possibility of a restricted budget without Champions League football or any European football next season if they fail to improve from their current eighth position in the Premier League table, John W Henry could not justify spending as much as £135m on one high-profile player, despite Bellingham's undeniable talent. Nevertheless, midfield acquisitions will still be a top priority for Jurgen Klopp, who may welcome two or even three new midfielders to the team since the club's financial reserves will not be earmarked for Bellingham, as Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Juventus loanee Arthur are all leaving at the end of the season, possibly along with James Milner if he does not agree to a new contract.
Here are five realistic alternatives that Liverpool could sign in lieu of Bellingham this summer.
Ryan Gravenberch
Ryan Gravenberch, the promising Dutch midfielder, did not expect to immediately break into Bayern Munich's starting lineup after leaving Ajax last year, given the strength of Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka's partnership in midfield. Nevertheless, the 20-year-old hoped to have made more than four starts in his first season with the Bavarian club, and his situation has not improved under new coach Thomas Tuchel.Gravenberch has only been in the starting lineup for one Bundesliga game this season and was an unused substitute in the recent Champions League loss to Manchester City. Gravenberch has hinted at a possible exit if he does not see more playing time, though he is under contract with Bayern until 2027 and the club remains optimistic about his future.
However, a loan move could be on the cards as the midfielder looks for more consistent opportunities, and Liverpool and Arsenal are reportedly interested in his services, with the added bonus of joining fellow Dutchmen Virgil van Dijk and Cody Gakpo at Anfield.
Nicolo Barella
Nicolo Barella, the Inter Milan midfielder, is attracting interest from several clubs, including Liverpool. The 26-year-old played a crucial role in Italy's successful Euro 2020 campaign and has already made a name for himself in England. Barella has scored seven goals and provided eight assists this season, and Liverpool is in need of more goal contributions from midfield.Barella's preference for the right side of midfield could also provide additional protection for Trent Alexander-Arnold. Although Barella has a contract with Inter until 2026, he may be available for as little as €50m (£44m) this summer, according to reports in Italy. Inter is said to have made this decision due to Barella's recent poor performances in their four-game winless streak in Serie A, but his impressive display in the Champions League against Benfica may increase his value.
Youri Tielemans
Youri Tielemans, the Leicester City midfielder, is set to become a highly sought-after free agent in Europe this summer, with a departure from the King Power Stadium expected. Leicester's precarious position in the relegation battle, currently sitting in 19th place, makes it increasingly unlikely that they will agree on a new contract with the Belgian.Tielemans's contributions have also dwindled this season, with only four goals and one assist in 29 games across all competitions, although an ankle injury has kept him sidelined for the past six weeks. Despite Arsenal's interest last summer, they have now prioritized Declan Rice over Tielemans. FSG may be enticed by the possibility of signing Tielemans on a free transfer, but with several offers on the table, the midfielder may demand higher wages, and his recent injury may make Liverpool hesitant.
Mason Mount
Liverpool have reportedly turned their attention to Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount, after their pursuit of Jude Bellingham failed. The 24-year-old's future at Stamford Bridge remains uncertain, with talks of a contract extension yet to materialize beyond 2024.However, should negotiations fail, the Blues could consider selling Mount this summer. Despite a recent abdominal injury, the England international has remained an influential figure at Chelsea, and his relationship with Frank Lampard could see him play a crucial role for the remainder of the season. Mount's versatility to play as an attacking midfielder or in a deeper role makes him an intriguing prospect for Liverpool.
The Reds would also benefit from fulfilling their home-grown quota with Mount's signing. While Chelsea has reportedly set a £70m asking price, Liverpool may drive the price down significantly, given the risk of Mount leaving for free at the end of next season.
Romeo Lavia
Southampton's dismal season may offer little in the way of positives, but the emergence of 19-year-old Romeo Lavia is certainly one. After leaving Manchester City for a mere £10.8m last summer, the Belgian's tough-tackling abilities and progressive carries have rightfully earned many plaudits, despite being hampered by a hamstring injury.Even if Southampton somehow avoid relegation, their chances of retaining Lavia for the 2023-24 season are slim, with several Big Six clubs waiting to pounce during the summer window. Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Man United are all reportedly interested in the teenager's services, and while Man City possesses a £40m buyback clause, they cannot trigger it until 2024.
An unrestrained scramble for Lavia's signature could therefore occur in the upcoming transfer window. As the 19-year-old is skilled in both the number six role and box-to-box duties, Liverpool may have found their long-term replacement for the declining Fabinho as well.
