Liverpool have already found Thiago replacement with £53m midfielder vital for Jurgen Klopp

Jurgen Klopp may have already identified his replacement for Thiago Alcantara, after the Spaniard was ruled out for the rest of the season with a thigh injury.

Liverpool host Fulham on Wednesday evening and need three points if they are to stand any chance of qualifying for the Champions League.

Klopp is staring down the barrel of a trophyless season at Anfield, and will be itching for the summer transfer window when he can invest in the squad.

The German is expected to pay particular attention to his midfield, which as borne the brunt of the criticism this campaign.

While news of Thiago's injury should create a greater need for a new midfielder, with Liverpool's list of potential targets seemingly growing by the day.

However, based on the Reds' performances this season, Sporting Lisbon midfielder Manuel Ugarte could be the missing piece to Liverpool's jigsaw.

Ugarte to Liverpool?

Ugarte has been a standout performer for Sporting this season, making 44 appearances for the Portuguese side.

The 22-year-old ranks 99th in the percentile for tackles compared to other midfielders, which is more than any of his teammates according to FBRef.

While he was described as a "warrior" by football scout Jacek Kuulig and his defensive prowess could prove vital for Klopp next season.

Ugarte's attacking returns are less impressive, with the Uruguayan managing just one assist all season.

However, his ability to cover ground could help provide the freedom for Trent Alexander-Arnold to move into midfield and play the position of Thiago.

Alexander-Arnold has proved time after time how threatening he can be with the ball at his feet, picking out dangerous passes at will.

While Ugarte might struggle to play Thiago's illusive midfield role, his high energy style of play and 'warrior' like mentality could help relieve Alexander-Arnold of some of his defensive duties and allow Klopp to deploy the Englishman higher up the pitch.

Liverpool sent scouts to watch Ugarte play over the weekend, according to the Daily Mail, and the club have allegedly made contact with the player over a potential move.

Newcastle, Tottenham, Aston Villa and Leeds are also said to be keeping tabs on Ugarte, while Mikel Arteta has sent his recruitment team to watch him in action.

Indeed, Portuguese news outlet O Jogo claim that a summer move is 'practically inevitable' with Ugarte ready to pursue a new challenge elsewhere.

Topics: Liverpool, Thiago Alcantara, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jurgen Klopp, Transfers, Football, Sporting Lisbon

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno