Liverpool see exciting Schalke teenager as Gerrard’s successor
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Since his summer exit was confirmed Liverpool’s search for Steven Gerrard’s replacement has seen the club linked with players far and wide, but the latest name in the frame could be the real deal.
The likes of Chelsea were first alerted to the potential of 19-year-old Schalke star Max Meyer during last season’s Champions League.
Shortly after his 18th birthday the midfielder stood out for his assured performance despite his club losing 3-0 in Gelsenkirchen, leading in typically-Chelsea fashion to a speculative bid for his services from the Blues.
Seven goals arrived for Mayer during an outstanding breakthrough season in which Schalke understandably tied their new number seven down to a five-year contract.
This term Meyer’s development as an attacking midfielder has progressed again under Roberto Di Matteo, with the teenager amassing 28 appearances, scoring another six so far.
But it’s not just the skillful youngster’s keen eye for goal which has led Liverpool to identify him as the man capable of filling Gerrard’s boots.
It hasn’t gone unnoticed by the 23/20 shots for a top-four finish that Meyer’s game also contains a Gerrard-esque strand of creativity, with 17 Schalke chances in the Bundesliga coming courtesy of the German international.
Brendan Rodgers knows that exact replicas of the outgoing Liverpool legend simply don’t exist, but buying someone of Meyer’s quality and potential seems the next best thing for the Reds boss.
The Northern Irishman is clearly intent on building a dynasty at Anfield judging by the average age of the current squad and coaxing potential out of players with the profile of Meyer fits his ethos perfectly.
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