Liverpool may have been one of the busier Premier League clubs in the transfer window but it seems manager Brendan Rodgers is far from finished when it comes to strengthening his squad.
Having already signed Kolo Toure, Luis Alberto, Iago Aspas and Simon Mignolet, Rodgers revealed that he will now turn his attention to signing players who can instantly have an impact in the first team.
"Now what's important over the next three to five weeks is improving the team. That's something the club is working very hard at," declared the Reds boss. "I'm sure by the time the end of August comes we'll be ready and we'll have a terrific squad ready to challenge.
"I still think another attacking, creative player, and depending on what goes out of the club - because naturally there might be one or two players who need to go out and play more - then we'll need to fill those areas that have been vacated.
"Certainly another attacking player will really benefit us, and probably another defender. We'll see how it develops over the course of the next few months."
With Luis Suarez suggesting he is keen to leave the club, Liverpool may also be in need of a first choice striker. With plenty of business to be done we decided to help out Rodgers by presenting a list of three players who would instantly command a place in the first team.
Centre-Back - Toby Alderweireld
The Ajax defender is currently considering an offer from Norwich but there is no reason why he could not walk into the Liverpool first team and challenge Martin Skrtel for a starting berth. Still just 24 years old he already has a wealth of experience in the Champions League and has three league titles to his name. His partnership with Jan Vertonghen was formidable two seasons ago and it is likely he would perfectly gel alongside the left-footed Daniel Agger. Alderweireld also has a superb pedigree on the international stage having represented Belgium at every youth level, whilst also winning 24 caps for the senior side. Competing with Premier League defenders like Vertonghen, Vincent Kompany and Thomas Vermaelen for a place at centre-back for Belgium further proves his credentials. Even better for Liverpool he would cost less than £7m and Ajax are prepared to sell.
Attacking/creative midfielder - Christian Eriksen
Another realistic target for Liverpool and a player who has a burgeoning reputation after three outstanding years in the Ajax first team. Eriksen has played a major role in helping the Dutch giants win three league titles and much like his teammate Alderweireld, has refused to sign a new deal and has just 12 months remaining on his current contract. The Denmark international has previously said he was "flattered" to be linked with Liverpool and has consistently been on the radar of numerous Premier League teams. A hugely skilful midfielder with great vision and an eye for goal, Eriksen would be a long term investment who could immediately compete with the likes of Jordan Henderson and Joe Allen for a place in midfield. His ten league goals last season show he is improving his finishing and once again Liverpool would not have to break the bank for a player with massive potential, and is ready to immediately step into the first team.
Striker - Christian Benteke
Liverpool fans and Rodgers alike will be hoping that they do not need another striker but if Suarez decides to force through a move then the club will have significant funds and they could do far worse than snap up Benteke. The powerhouse Belgian demonstrated his talent in front of the Kop last year when he excelled in Villa's 3-1 win at Anfield, hitting two of his 19 Premier League goals. Having handed in a transfer request it is believed he would be available for £25m; a fee unlikely to scare off Liverpool especially if they have cashed in on Suarez. At just 22 years of age he will only improve and has already shown his ability to lead the front in a struggling side. A central role with Daniel Sturridge and Philippe Coutinho on either side is a fascinating and exciting front line that would worry any defence. A lack of European football may hinder Liverpool's chances but with the club showing plenty of ambition, they may feel they can convince the Belgium international it is the right move.
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