Joe Matip intends to remain in the Premier League despite leaving Liverpool this summer (Image: GETTY)
Joel Matip, the 32 year old free agent defender, is eyeing a return to Premier League action after being released from Liverpool following an eight-year stint.
Despite a season marred by injuries, with his last of 201 appearances made in December, Matip remains confident in his ability to regain full fitness and meet the demands of English football.
The former Premier League and Champions League winner, who arrived at Anfield on a free transfer from Schalke, is reportedly being eyed by Bournemouth as Lloyd Kelly heads to Newcastle.
Matip’s contributions under Jurgen Klopp have cemented his status as a Reds legend.
Matip suffered a ruptured ACL during Liverpool’s 4-3 win over Fulham at Anfield in early December, and required immediate surgery as a result.
The imposing centre-half, who contributed an assist in the famous 2019 Champions League final victory over Tottenham, has been recovering on the sidelines ever since.
Matip’s absence in the team handed an opportunity to youngster Jarrell Quansah, who flourished for the Reds and as a result has earned a provisional spot on Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad with England.
Liverpool are expected to turn focus to the transfer market this summer in order to replace Matip and bring in defensive reinforcements.
New manager Arne Slot will be able to call upon captain Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate as his most senior centre-back pairing, while Quansah and fellow England international Joe Gomez can also fill in centrally.
Liverpool have been heavily linked with Sporting Lisbon star Goncalo Inacio, along with Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace and Jorrel Hato of Ajax.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1903724/Liverpool-Joel-Matip-Premier-League-transfer