When Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool fans faced the prospect of the new season, there was a sense of unease. Their midfield was undergoing significant changes due to the influence of Saudi Arabian wealth, with both captain Jordan Henderson and long-serving stalwart Fabinho moving to the Middle East.

To address this, Liverpool actively sought new additions to the squad during the summer transfer window. While the club invested around £145 million in players like Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, Wataru Endo, and Ryan Gravenberch, there were nine other midfielders they pursued but couldn’t secure.

1. Moises Caicedo: This high-profile miss was notably acquired by Chelsea in a British record £115 million move. Although the Ecuador international displayed glimpses of his talent, his performance has not fully justified the hefty price tag. Chelsea, under manager Mauricio Pochettino, seems to be on an upturn, and they remain optimistic about Caicedo’s contribution.

2. Sofyan Amrabat: The Moroccan midfielder had a fantastic run at the World Cup and played a crucial role in Fiorentina’s journey to the Europa Conference League final last season. However, he joined Manchester United after a loan move on deadline day but found himself playing mostly as a left-back, with limited opportunities to perform as a midfielder.

3. Joao Palhinha: Palhinha almost became a Liverpool player, but he remains at Fulham. He had a chance of a January transfer, following the collapse of his Bayern Munich move. Despite this setback, Palhinha signed a new five-year contract with Fulham, making him a valuable asset. If the club’s fortunes do not improve, he might still be tempted by a lucrative transfer.

4. Romeo Lavia: Lavia is another player who slipped through Liverpool’s fingers, signing with Chelsea for a substantial £58 million. However, an ankle injury has delayed his Chelsea debut. Manager Mauricio Pochettino has expressed enthusiasm about Lavia’s role in the team, despite his current injury status.

5. Khephren Thuram: The son of French legend Lilian Thuram and brother of Inter Milan’s Marcus Thuram, Khephren has enjoyed an excellent start at Nice. Positioned second in Ligue 1, just one point off the top, Nice has performed exceptionally well this season. Khephren’s talent continues to shine under the guidance of manager Francesco Farioli.

6. Manu Kone: This 22-year-old French midfielder is currently at Borussia Monchengladbach in the Bundesliga. He has had a less spectacular season so far, making just one start and appearing on the matchday squad three times while recovering from a knee injury sustained during the under-21 European Championships. Despite these challenges, Kone remains a subject of interest, with Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Juventus reportedly considering him.

7. Andre Trindade: Andre, a 22-year-old Brazilian playmaker, has been instrumental in Fluminense’s journey to the Copa Libertadores final, set to be played on November 4 against Boca Juniors. His season will end after this final, providing Liverpool with an opportunity to pursue the player. Reports suggest that both the club and the player are open to a move to Anfield.

8. Gabri Veiga: The Saudi Pro League attracted various young talents, and Gabri Veiga was one of them. Despite being a key player for Celta Vigo at just 21, Veiga decided to leave Europe and join Al Ahli in the Middle East. Liverpool legend Roberto Firmino also plays for Al Ahli. Veiga has expressed that his move was based on the opportunity for growth, working with a young coach, and playing in a league that is rapidly expanding.

9. Cheick Doucoure: This Malian midfielder was briefly linked with Liverpool after unsuccessful pursuits of other midfielders. Signed by Crystal Palace from Lens last year, Doucoure remains a key player at Selhurst Park, and manager Roy Hodgson has expressed a desire to retain all his players despite the potential financial gains from their transfer.

While Liverpool couldn’t secure these midfielders during the summer transfer window, their progress throughout the season will continue to be of interest to fans and the club. The midfield remains a crucial area for the team, and these players may still play a role in Liverpool’s future plans.