Liverpool: Reds finally call Naby Keita theirs – Taking the #8 jersey is a big statement

What has taken sweat, patience and a lot of negotiations, Liverpool finally have their star midfielder at the club, Naby Keita.

What sets light to the signing finally arriving at the club, he returns the iconic number 8 jersey. What kind of weight has Keita placed on his shoulders for the up and coming years as a Red?

The African born player has not only added value to the ranks but has sent out a statement to the club and fans. We of past and present know exactly what is to take the jerseys of legendary players at a club like Liverpool, Man United, and others.

The weight of the jersey normally so overbearing – some players fail miserably becoming the exact opposite of legendary and rather the jersey’s biggest flops. It’s been hard not to notice his world-class potential since catching the eye of the public.

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I think many would agree, Klopp and the Anfield club has really gathered a gem in the likes of Naby Keita. BUT, big but, like every other player that joins the demanding English Premier League, he must first prove himself.

What better way to do so…

What better way to make a statement, than by taking one of the most iconic numbers in recent years. Having been ‘retired’ and not retired after ex-captain Steven Gerrard left the club, it now returns with Liverpool’s second most expensive signing in the history of the club.

There’s two ways we could look at it. The player is way out of his depth and taking such a number has put him in a hole with an option to sink.

Or, it says loads about the African and what type of mentality he has. A player really ready for the ride and the challenge set by any team or manager he must apply himself for.

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Not long before we get to see what this man is about. Think the idea of Klopp and him working together, is one for the books. Liverpool will announce him as a Red officially on the first of July, finalising one of the strangest transfers in Liverpool’s history.

The deal said to be around £53 million after RB Leipzig failed to qualify for the Champions League. Liverpool still applying pressure to the rest of the clubs around them with their great business. Another player in the running for signing of the season.