Getting closer and closer.
VVD, AOC, the two pacy fullbacks are bringing us very close.
I like Karius, and I think he has earned the number 1 spot. He's not world class, but he is a good, reliable keeper who is steadily improving. Think he can develop further. Having a leader like VVD in defense has really helped him.
I'm not sure regarding the defense. On a good day, Lovren is really great - committed, good in the air, brave, and good on the ball. But I'm not sure he will ever cut the errors out. Its kind of okay when a 19 year old does it, but not when you're 28. I think we are good numbers-wise. Matip and Gomez's fitness is a concern, as is Klavan's ageing. I think a CB signing could be useful, but only if its either an elite young talent or someone for a starting spot.
We are quite spoiled in the fullback department. Barring talent hoarders like Madrid, we likely have one of the best pools of fullbacks to chose from (injuries permitting) in Clyne, Trent, Moreno and Robertson. With Gomez and Milner both capable of filling in, we are very blessed quality and depth wise.
Think the midfield is very different to the good ones he had at Dortmund. No one can manouvre in tight spaces like a peak Sahin or Gundogan can, which is where Keita will be very valuable. As much as we are great at pressing, when we get pressed ourselves, most of of our midfield struggles. Our midfield is full of good players, with AOC the only with potential to become world class IMO. Keita is on a completely different level, and will be a great addition.
We also win the ball back in good spaces in midfield, but the execution of that one pass to create an opportunity is so often messed up (Can and Henderson are very guilty of rushing it, because they have the turning circle of the titantic).To be fair, Henderson is probably second only to Kante in his off the ball work in the league, so there's always that to consider in terms of pros and cons.
I think 3 good signings - nothing spectacular, mind, will transform our side, as I believe Klopp having a squad he can interchange regularly is key. Another option for CB/Matip recovering good form, a technically adept number 6, and a versatile, pacy forward will be huge for us.
Don't think we are far off - just need to upgrade some good players --> great players in the starting 11, and put guarenteed starters under pressure for their positions/rotation options.