Liverpool Transfer News: Steven Gerrard Hints at LA Galaxy Exit, Latest Rumours

Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Steven Gerrard has further fuelled rumours of a possible return to Liverpool after a post on Instagram that suggests he is set to leave the Major League Soccer side.

The legendary former Reds skipper moved to the United States at the end of the 2014-15 season having previously spent his entire career at Anfield. However, after nearly 18 months with the MLS side, Gerrard has hinted a new challenge could be on the cards on social media:

“Special place incredible view I will miss you LA,” read the 36-year-old’s accompanying message.

Gerrard’s contract with the Galaxy is set to expire at the end of the season, and there’s little movement on an extension, per Joe Mewis of the Daily Mirror. The midfielder’s last game for the club was the loss on penalties to Colorado Rapids in the post season playoffs.

According to Chris Beesley of the Liverpool Echo, Reds boss Jurgen Klopp has made it clear that Gerrard is welcome back at the club any time; the midfielder is said to have stopped in at the Melwood training complex last month as part of his recovery from a hamstring problem. Beesley added that it’s likely the former England international will become part of the coaching team.

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As noted by Sports Illustrated’s Grant Wahl recently, Gerrard is one of a clutch of high-profile players who could depart MLS at the end of the campaign:

For football romantics, a return to Liverpool would be bliss. After all, few men know the ins and outs of the Merseyside giants quite like Gerrard, having captained the team with distinction, most memorably to the 2005 UEFA Champions League. Naturally, his presence as part of Klopp’s staff would have its positives.

Even so, any reunion would be a huge story and would potentially unsettle the tremendous dynamic that has the Reds top of the league.

Arsenal to Rival Liverpool for Paul-Georges Ntep

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According to TransferMarketWeb (h/t Jamie Styles of the Daily Star), Liverpool will face competition from Arsenal for Rennes star Paul-Georges Ntep.

The winger could be available on a cut-price deal in January or on a free transfer, with his deal at Roazhon Park set to expire at the end of the current season. As well as the two sides aforementioned, Lazio, Southampton and Watford have also been linked to the France international.

With four assists from nine appearances already this term, Ntep continues to catch the eye in Ligue 1, where he’s forged a reputation as one of the division’s most exciting wingers.

Here is what he could potentially bring to the Premier League:

Liverpool could arguably do with another direct wide player. Sadio Mane has made a massive impact at the club since arriving from Southampton in the summer, offering a thrust to Liverpool’s attacking play that was lacking last term. But if he gets injured or suspended, there’s no other player available to Klopp to provide a similar presence. Mane may also be on 2017 Africa Cup of Nations duty with Senegal between January and February.

Ntep could potentially be that man. Operating from the left flank, he has brought an edge to the way Rennes play with his neat footwork and ability to pick a pass. His work rate and physicality may be a little lacking for a Klopp side, although the German may see malleable assets to work with that could make him a useful part of his Liverpool vision.