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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Mark Jones

Jurgen Klopp's plan for Takumi Minamino as Liverpool move for Salzburg star

Takumi Minamino will be a valuable squad addition for Liverpool as the Reds go for glory in the New Year.

The Japanese international will become a Liverpool player on January 1 providing he passes a medical, as the Reds moved swiftly to wrap up what looks to be a bargain new signing from Red Bull Salzburg.

The 24-year-old was hugely impressive in both Champions League group games against the Reds this season, and scored a fine volley in Salzburg's 4-3 defeat at Anfield in October.

He was excellent again in the return clash in Austria on Tuesday, with after their 2-0 win had secured qualification for the knockout stages.

Minamino will join the Reds on January 1 (Getty Images)

Minamino's ability to play in a variety of attacking positions was one of the key reasons that the Reds - who had been tracking him since 2013 - wanted to sign him, and Klopp is sure to use the 22-times capped Japan international in the second half of the season.

There is an outside chance he will make his Reds debut in the Premier League clash with Sheffield United on January 2, although it is more likely that his bow comes in the FA Cup third round clash with Everton at Anfield on January 5.

Klopp is likely to give the new boy plenty of minutes (PA)

Klopp will be wary of his attackers tiring, with Roberto Firmino in particular appearing to be struggling of late.

Minamino could play in a more withdrawn attacking role to cover for the Brazilian, and help feed Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah.

The Japanese could provide cover for Roberto Firmino (Andrew Powell)

What is clear is that he will get minutes in the latter half of the season, with cover in attack vital as the Reds look to maintain their Premier League advantage and defend the Champions League.

Minamino will be eligible for the latter competition despite facing the Reds in the group stages this season due to a recent rule change by UEFA that removed the prospect of players being cup-tied.

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