Former Cameroon defender Joel Matip’s contract with Liverpool expires at the end of the season and he is leaving the club.He is still one of the best defenders in the game, with performances that rivaled the likes of Ibrahima Konate and Jaleel Quansah.
He is leaving Anfield at the same time as Jurgen Klopp, but his new home is yet to be decided. In addition to a return to his native Germany, interest has also arrived from Italy and Turkey. Although he was thought to be leaving the Premier League, there may be a chance he could stay in England.
According to The Sun, Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, who finished 12th in the Premier League this season, has been instructed to make the player a top target. Meanwhile, Championship side Southampton are also in the hunt.
The veteran centre-back has made 256 appearances for Schalke and has also started 201 games on the pitch for Liverpool. He has the length to defend against opponents and the legs to defend vast spaces. A defence backed by experience can be expected.
He has a lot of experience on the big stage, such as the Premier League and Champions League, and will certainly be an important asset for Bournemouth and Southampton. Even if he doesn’t become a regular, he would be a valuable back-up.
With no transfer fee, a number of clubs are expected to come forward in the race for Matip, but which club will ultimately succeed in acquiring him?