Reds legend impressed by Klopp's signings
Liverpool's summer signings have shown enough in pre-season to suggest they have significantly strengthened Jürgen Klopp's squad.
That is the view of Anfield legend John Aldridge, who has been impressed by the performances of the club's latest acquisitions in their first outings for the Reds.
Klopp has added seven new faces ahead of the 2016-17 campaign getting underway, all of whom made their debuts over the course of the nine friendlies contested during a busy summer.
And Aldo believes the early signs suggest that each player could make a big contribution when the new season begins.
"I like the look of the new signings. Sadio Mane is a player who will excite fans with his pace and ability, while Marko Grujic looks a real prospect in midfield," the former striker wrote in his column for the Liverpool Echo.
"Loris Karius looked very adept before his injury, and will give us real good strength in the goalkeeping position, and Joel Matip seems a very elegant defender who will get better as he gets used to the league.
"Gini Wijnaldum we've seen flashes of real quality from last season with Newcastle, so hopefully he can go and prove himself further with us.
"And I have to say Ragnar Klavan has looked the business so far – he's a proper defender, no airs and graces, and that's something we have needed for a while now."
With Klopp's squad looking stronger than ever, Aldridge's expectations for 2016-17 have also been given a boost.
The Kop favourite says qualification for the Champions League courtesy of a top-four finish is the least the Reds should be targeting this term.
"Liverpool's minimum aim this season has to be to finish in the top four, it's as simple as that," he added.
"It's an intriguing Premier League this year, with so many new managers and new signings.
"But for Liverpool, with no European distractions, they simply have to get into those Champions League places. It makes such a difference to the club, in terms of the money it brings in, and the prestige too.
"When you're trying to attract top players, it helps if you can say 'we're in the Champions League next season' for sure."