Liverpool are being linked to Bayern Munich midfielder Mario Gotze and FC Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, but it appears fans will not see both of them at Anfield next season.
Recent reports indicated that Gotze could find himself reunited with former Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp at Anfield. Gotze is still in contract with Bayern until after the 2017 season, but the Germany international was mentioned in soccer transfer rumors linking him to a move to Liverpool or a return to Dortmund.
But in a recent interview, Klopp, who handled Gotze at Westfalenstadion from 2009-2013, declined to address the rumors, but heaped praise on the midfielder for his impressive performance during Germany's 4-1 win against Italy in an international soccer friendly match on Tuesday.
"I am happy that he put in a good performance yesterday. But there is nothing to add from my side," Klopp told reporters via ESPN. "He's a player with extraordinary abilities and wants to return to full fitness after four months on the sidelines."
Meanwhile, Liverpool will likely be forced to look for another goalkeeper to target this summer, as reports revealed that they are on the verge of losing in the bidding war for Ter Stegen. According to Telegraph, the FC Barcelona keeper will likely pick Manchester City because of incoming manager Pep Guardiola.
Manchester City are reportedly willing to shell out £20 million to acquire Ter Stegen from FC Barcelona. In the event Ter Stegen officially moves to Manchester City, he will be competing with Joe Hart for the No. 1 goalkeeper spot. The 23-year-old recently hinted that he is puzzled with FC Barcelona manager Luis Enrique's plans.
"I also have personal goals," Ter Stegen said. "The coach decides the way he decides, I guess he has his reasons to do so. But we will see how this goes on in the future."
Ter Stegen started for FC Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League and Copa Del Rey but is playing behind Claudio Bravo in their Spanish La Liga matches.
"I don't know what the coach thinks, you have to ask him. I can just say that I want to give my very best," Ter Stegen added. "That's what I always do - I want to give my best for the team and obviously also for me."
