Liverpool-linked Thiago Alcantara would have no problem adapting to English football, a former Premier League defensive stalwart has suggested.
The 29-year-old Bayern Munich midfielder has reportedly turned down a new contract with the German champions and has repeatedly been linked with a move to Anfield.
The ECHO understands that the Reds are not actively pursuing the Spanish international but former Arsenal and Germany centre half Per Mertesacker has said he has everything in his locker to succeed at Liverpool.
The 2014 World Cup winner also suggested Thiago may face a battle to become a regular starter at Anfield.
"I can already imagine the transfer, but the midfield axis of Liverpool is set up," Mertesacker told Goal and SPOX.
"Getting in there is very ambitious, but he's a top footballer who can play anywhere.
"He wouldn't have any problems with the style of play in England either because he's a footballer who has been coached well.
"He has to adapt and sometimes do a 40-metre sprint to hit a central defender, but he can.
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"He has to decide for himself, as it may well be that he won't play a major role in the first games in Liverpool.
"There are still a few players ahead of him because of their achievements over the past two years."
Thiago is expected to feature for Bayern Munich as they bid to reach the Champions League final on Wednesday night when they take on Lyon in Lisbon.
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