The confirmation of Gini Wijnaldum’s departure from Anfield has not only deflated the Liverpool fans but left a gaping big hole in Jurgen Klopp's starting XI for the new season.
Wijnaldum - who was one of Klopp’s first signings at Anfield - became a mainstay within the Liverpool squad and helped the Merseyside club become European and Premier League champions.
However, Wijnaldum decided to sign a three-year deal with Paris Saint-Germain after his contract at Liverpool expired in June, insisting he was not fully appreciated at Anfield. Wijnaldum's departure will be sorely felt as his versatility, confidence, availability and experience have been vital to the squad over the past five years.
Additionally, Liverpool's midfield may take another hit as Jordan Henderson's future at Anfield is looking increasingly uncertain. The club captain has two years remaining on his current contract - which he signed in 2018 - but negotiations over an extension have stalled.
Therefore, Liverpool must look at potential replacements for both Wijnaldum and Henderson this summer as they look to reclaim their 2019-2020 title as Premier League champions next season.
These are the outstanding candidates to fill those very big boots...
Liverpool must replace Gini Wijnaldum (right), who has signed for Paris Saint-Germain
They may also look to replace their club captain Jordan Henderson (above) this summer
Age: 23
Club: Leicester
Nationality: Belgium
Youri Tielemans is a box-to-box midfielder that sets the tempo for Brendan Rodgers' Leicester side. His presence in the middle of the park has caught the attention of several Premier League giants this summer but it is Liverpool who are hoping to acquire his signature.
The Merseyside club have been long-term admirers of Tielemans and were among those hoping to sign him from Anderlecht in 2017. Liverpool manager Klopp has also expressed his admiration for the 23-year-old in the past - having praised the youngster for his contribution at Leicester.
Tielemans is a box-to-box midfielder that sets the tempo for Brendan Rodgers' Leicester side
Tielemans' presence in midfield has caught the attention of several Premier League giants
The Reds boss believes Tielemans could be the perfect replacement for Wijnaldum as he is a 'controlling midfielder' than can influence the game in a number of ways.
He is not only effective at maintaining possession and optimising space around himself, but he is also a threat going forwards. His vision and passing ability are a credit to his style of play. He is able to exploit the gaps in the opposition's defence and link the defence to the attack.
Tielemans is also regarded as a goal-scoring threat - having the ability to strike off either foot from distance. While his spatial awareness and composure on the ball allow him to stay calm in high-pressure situations and execute his role consistently.
Tielemans' impact at Leicester can be supported through last season's statistics as he had the second-most touches per 90 of any player over 1000 minutes at 76.5. He also became the most passed to player in the squad.
As a result, Tielemans is regarded as the fans' favourite to replace Wijnaldum at Liverpool this summer.
The Liverpool manager believes Tielemans could be the perfect replacement for Wijnaldum as he is a 'controlling midfielder' than can influence the game in a number of ways
Age: 22
Club: Lyon
Nationality: France
Houssem Aouar is regarded as one of the most successful players to have emerged from the Lyon academy. His performances for the club's first XI have caught the attention of several Premier League giants.
The 22-year-old was in talks with Arsenal over a potential move to North London last season. However, he decided to stay in France - resulting in Mikel Arteta's deadline day signing of Thomas Partey.
Aouar is one of the most successful players to have emerged from the Lyon academy
He was in talks with Arsenal over a potential move to North London last season.
