Jurgen Klopp Has Already Warned Liverpool About Dominic Calvert-Lewin – They Must Listen

Published on December 30, 2025, by Rousing the Kop

In a stark reminder from Liverpool's legendary former manager, Jurgen Klopp has cautioned the club against pursuing Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, urging current boss Arne Slot to heed his words amid ongoing transfer speculation.

Klopp's Past Warning Resurfaces

The article revisits Klopp's candid 2022 interview where he dissected Calvert-Lewin's playing style. Describing him as a "target man" who thrives on physicality and aerial duels, Klopp noted his strengths in holding up play but highlighted glaring weaknesses: inconsistent finishing, poor decision-making under pressure, and a tendency to fade in high-stakes matches. "He's got the tools, but not the killer instinct," Klopp remarked, emphasizing that Liverpool's high-pressing system demands more than raw athleticism.

Fast-forward to 2025, with Calvert-Lewin entering the final year of his Everton contract, rumors link him to Anfield as a budget-friendly option to bolster Liverpool's attack, especially with Darwin Nunez's form dipping and Diogo Jota injury-prone. At 28, his market value has plummeted to around £20m due to persistent injuries—hamstring issues sidelined him for 20+ games last season—and a meager goal tally of just 7 in the Premier League this year.

Why Liverpool Should Steer Clear

The piece argues Calvert-Lewin's stats underscore Klopp's prescient warning: a career xG underperformance of -15.2, the lowest among top-flight forwards, reveals his profligacy. Everton fans have grown frustrated with his 1 goal every 4.1 shots ratio, far below elite strikers like Erling Haaland (every 2.8) or even Nunez (every 3.5).

Moreover, the Merseyside rivalry adds irony—signing Everton's talismanic forward risks fan backlash and disrupts squad harmony. Alternatives like Sporting's Viktor Gyokeres or Brentford's Ivan Toney offer superior output without the baggage.

Conclusion: Listen to the Master

Klopp's verdict remains relevant: Calvert-Lewin is a "gamble not worth taking" for title-chasing Liverpool. Slot must prioritize proven goalscorers to sustain the club's dominance. Ignoring the German's insight could prove costly in the unforgiving Premier League.

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