Liverpool are reportedly close to confirming the appointment of their next sporting director.
Liverpool have been on the lookout for a new sporting director since November after Julian Ward left his role, despite only taking over from Michael Edwards last summer.
According to the Telegraph, the Reds are now edging closer to making the ‘shock’ appointment of veteran German football executive Jörg Schmadtke, after talks between him and the club ‘accelerated’.
The 59-year-old has a wide experience in the game, starting with Aachen back in 2001 before taking on roles at Hannover, Cologne and most recently, Wolfsburg.
According to the report, the former goalkeeper is an ‘ally’ of Jurgen Klopp, and will ‘work closely with long-serving chief scouts Dave Fallows and Barry Hunter.’
Schmadtke – who is said to have a ‘robust sense of humour’ and ‘outspoken style’ – is reported to be known for his ability to work within a budget.
Liverpool’s recruitment has come under criticism in recent months, with the club’s midfield having seen very little change in recent seasons, though have been forced to pull out of the race to sign Jude Bellingham in recent weeks due to budgetary constraints.
The club are currently one point behind the top four places with three games to go, although Manchester United have two games in hand in the race for Champions League football.
