According to Sky Sports news they bought him to fill the boots left by the retirement of Metzelder. Don't mean to burst anyone's bubble because I'd love this transfer to happen too but the above sounds more plausible, however does not deny a deal for Papa..
They say ther is a pre-agreement but they said something similar last summer and ended up with oscar. Can see Dortmund going for him.
Looks a big strong player and at only 21 still far from his peak. Advantage is he's played in the German League which not only is now very strong but has always been most similar to English Leagues, more so than Spain, Italy & France meaning adapting to the style of football should in theory be easier. Would be happy with him & Toure as the new recruits if we get rid of Coates, if we also get rid of Skrtel then would be good to see another come in unless BR is planning on using Kelly & Wisdom there.
Sky Sports news saying Papa's staying put with Schalke, looks like our transfer window might just be turning around (for the worst..)
According to the summer transfer thread it is because he has had 3 knee surgeries which is unusual for the injury which has made Liverpool wary of meeting Schalke's valuation of £19m (compared to our valuation of £12m)..
If true then I commend Liverpool from baulking at that price, potential is no good if he spends 4 out 5/6 year contract on the physio's bench!
Same, we've already got Agger as our CB with an injury record, although his fitness has improved this season, knee injuries are quite risky as they are recurring and can leave players on the sidelines for months at a time
