Liverpool Transfer News: Mamadou Sakho Signing Makes Reds Premier League Contend

Brendan Rodgers and Liverpool shouldn’t stop with their transfer work even after agreeing on terms with Paris Saint-German centre-back Mamadou Sakho. Recent news indicates that the side has come to an agreement with PSG for a €17 million transfer for the 23-year-old defender, according to Wayne Veysey of Goal.com.

Dominic Campbell of Kopsource.com tweeted a shot of a sleepy Sakho in Meyerside, presumably awaiting a physical that will finalize the signing:

Liverpool got their guy after PSG recently granted him his requested departure.

"I would really have liked to continue working with him but he's signaled his desire to leave the club. The board and himself have found a solution,” PSG Manager Laurent Blanc said, per Sky Sports.

They’re still active on the transfer market as the September 2 deadline approaches, too. According to Darren Lewis of the Daily Mirror, the club has also agreed on an €8 million transfer fee for Sporting defender Tiago Ilori. That pending move, along with Sakho’s transfer, would solidify a defense that Rodgers hopes will help his club challenge for a top-four finish.

But should he stop there?

Getting his team back to Champions League competition has always been his goal, and he’s ever so close to getting it done. Shelling out a few extra bucks before Monday could be a catalyst to reach that end.

Where should he look?

After addressing some defensive concerns due to early-season injuries, Rodgers could make a play for an additional striker to add to his club’s already robust attack. But is there anyone out there available that’s also worth the money?

One name that is rumored to be available is Chelsea’s Juan Mata. However, there is apparently “no chance” that Chelsea will sell their attacking midfielder, manager Jose Mourinho said, per The Sun (via Sky Sports).

That shouldn’t deter Rodgers from trying. Mata was Chelsea’s best player last season and one of the better performing stars throughout the entire Premier League. At least making an effort is in order for that type of potential.

Another option could be Athletic Bilbao’s Ander Herrera. The attacking midfielder is currently being targeted by Manchester United, per Mark Ogden of the Daily Telegraph. Swooping in and stealing a versatile player like Herrera would be a deadline coup for Liverpool.

In the end, it’s important that Rodgers at least explores these types of moves. He has the time and the needs; we’ll see if anything happens as a result.