Liverpool could sign former Jurgen Klopp target for free after transfer snub
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Liverpool FC NewsTransfer NewsLiverpool FCLeon Goretzka has officially left Bayern Munich after eight years at the club and could be set for a move to Liverpool, almost a decade after Jurgen Klopp tried and failed to sign the German midfielder07:24, 02 Jul 2026Updated 07:28, 02 Jul 2026Former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp(Image: Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)Liverpool could secure Leon Goretzka on a free transfer this summer - nearly a decade after Jurgen Klopp tried to bring the German to Anfield. The 31 year old officially left Bayern Munich on Tuesday following the expiration of his contract, bringing an end to his eight-year spell with the Bundesliga champions.The Reds have already secured the signature of Spain international Victor Munoz under Andoni Iraola, who may be looking to strengthen his midfield options as he seeks to reshape his squad's approach to the game.The Germany international - who was part of the four-time world champions' World Cup exit on Monday - will now be concentrating on finding his next club ahead of the 2026/27 season.Goretzka's move to Bayern in 2018 from Schalke also arrived via a free transfer as the then 23 year old was also pursued by Klopp, who was managing the Reds at the time.The former Liverpool manager was well familiar with Goretzka's abilities, having competed against him in the German league during his time at Borussia Dortmund.However, Klopp's interest wasn't sufficient to overcome the challenge from Bayern, despite the midfielder previously acknowledging that "consideration" was given to potentially moving to Merseyside, reports the Mirror.Speaking to The Athletic in 2020, Goretzka disclosed his admiration for Klopp and his stewardship of Liverpool, yet maintained he had no reservations about joining the German giants.
He said: "They were a consideration, of course."They're a great club, and their development since Kloppo came has been amazing. We're all a little proud of him winning the title.
But I took a long time making my decision, and I was 100 per cent sure that Bayern was the right move for me."Goretzka exited the World Cup with Germany(Image: Getty Images)Goretzka claimed 17 major honours during his eight years at the club, including six Bundesliga titles and one Champions League trophy. However, his remarkable club record has not been mirrored at international level, with Germany failing to progress beyond the round of 32 in the last three World Cup tournaments.Julian Naglesmann has faced fierce criticism following his side's elimination, with The Telegraph reporting that Klopp is receptive to succeeding his compatriot should the German FA (DFB) terminate his contract, which runs until 2028.Nevertheless, the report suggests that any arrangement bringing Klopp back into management would necessitate concessions from the DFB.It indicates that Klopp — currently serving as Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull — would be unlikely to spend weekends attending stadiums to scout players at club level.Choose Liverpool.com as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.FIFA World CupLiverpool FCJurgen Klopp