Extending Ragnar Klavan’s contract would be a wise investment from Liverpool

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Having signed Virgil Van Dijk in January for a world record fee, Liverpool have barely been linked with any defenders this summer as it appears that Jurgen Klopp has his settled back-line of choice, including Ragnar Klavan.

The Estonian is entering into the final year of his current contract at Anfield, yet the Liverpool Echo claim that the Reds have the option to extend the deal for another year if they wish to.

Few would argue that Klavan is not quite the level of quality to be a regular starter for a team wanting to compete for the Premier League title, yet the defender knows his role and has no problem being a back-up choice on Merseyside.

In such a role, he is a good asset to have around the club and it explains why coach Jurgen Klopp is so pleased to have him around, with his experience also being key.

“Yes, of course [I want him to sign an extension], [he is a] fantastic player, really good footballer, he has all what you need. Of course I would but there are two sides to it.”

Jurgen Klopp revealed his desire to keep hold of his defender in April.

In a young defence alongside the likes of Joe Gomez and Trent Alexander-Arnold, he offers value both on and off the pitch, but he also provides a reliable option in the meantime.

Whilst the English duo develop and grow into the kind of players that can be playing regularly for a title contender, Klavan can fill the gap, and that is also the case as other areas of the squad are strengthened.

This summer, Klopp and co. have looked to add to midfield and some depth in attack, whilst also signing Alisson Becker in goal, postponing any further additions in defence.

Signing Klavan up for another year would give the club time and another option to fall back on should they be unable to get their first choice targets, as the club have shown before. Having that option not only reduces the urgency but also boosts their negotiating position.

The 32-year-old may not set the world alight, but he is a valuable option to have in the Liverpool squad for at least one more year and worth having under contract for another two.