Jamie Carragher slams Liverpool’s ‘disrespectful’ Thiago Alcantara pursuit

Jamie Carragher says Liverpool’s transfer pursuit of Thiago Alcantara is “disrespectful” to Jurgen Klopp’s current midfield stars.

The reigning Premier League champions have been chasing the Bayern Munich star all summer but have yet to agree a deal with the German giants.

It is understood that the Spanish playmaker has already agreed personal terms, but Carragher has doubts over the transfer saga.

And speaking as Liverpool got their title defence off to a winning start over Leeds on Saturday, the Anfield legend says the Thiago pursuit pays a disservice to the members of the club’s current midfield.

“I think the huge clamour for Thiago is a little bit disrespectful to Liverpool’s current midfield three,” Carragher told Sky Sports.

“Yes he would add something different, no doubt. But if he doesn’t come in, it’s not the end of the world, this is still a fantastic midfield for Liverpool.”

Carragher also says Liverpool are looking to sell “three or four players” to raise funds to sign Thiago.

Liverpool have been linked with a move for the Bayern Munich midfielder all summer but do not have the funds readily available to snap him up.

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As a result, Georginio Wijnaldum has been linked with a move to Barcelona to free up funds to make the transfer happen.

Carragher was asked about the situation on Sky Sports on Saturday, and confirmed that Liverpool need to sell before they can buy.

He said: “Liverpool have got three or four players in the squad they are looking to move on.

“It seems like they have to sell before they buy, that was the case with Dejan Lovren. He had to leave before a left-back could come in.

“Thiago would give Liverpool’s midfield something different, no doubt.”