Klopp's Previous Interest in German Winger
Jurgen Klopp had previously expressed significant interest in bringing Karim Adeyemi to Liverpool during his tenure at Anfield, according to reports from German publication BILD. The former Reds manager was said to be 'very interested' in his compatriot during Adeyemi's impressive spell at Red Bull Salzburg.
Current Situation at Borussia Dortmund
The 23-year-old German international's future at Borussia Dortmund appears increasingly uncertain following a breakdown in relationship with manager Niko Kovac. Adeyemi has struggled for form this season, managing just three goals in 14 appearances across all competitions without registering a goal or assist since late September.
The tension between player and manager became publicly visible during Dortmund's 1-0 victory over Koln when Adeyemi threw a water bottle at the bench after being substituted. Kovac responded critically, stating: 'I think that's unnecessary. It's okay that he can be angry sometimes, but that's unnecessary, he's an adult.'
Further friction emerged weeks later when Kovac showed clear agitation at Adeyemi's decision-making during another match, resulting in the player's substitution in the 66th minute.
Manchester United's Potential Move
With Adeyemi's contract set to expire in 2027 and his position at Dortmund becoming increasingly unstable, Manchester United have emerged as potential suitors for the forward. Should United pursue this transfer, they would be dealing with super-agent Jorge Mendes, who also facilitated the deals for Leny Yoro and Manuel Ugarte.
This isn't the first time United have shown interest in Adeyemi - the club were linked with the German three years ago before he eventually joined Dortmund in the summer of 2022. However, at that time, the president of Adeyemi's former club SpVgg Unterhaching, Manfred Schwabl, cautioned that a move to a major English club might be premature.
'It depends on how he develops,' Schwabl told Sky Sports Austria. 'From the whole constellation, from the way of playing soccer, from the speed, the urge to score and the down-to-earthness, he is predestined. Liverpool and Manchester United are clubs that are desperate for such players. But it's still far too early for that.'
Adeyemi's professional career began with Austrian side Red Bull Salzburg, where his breakout 2021/22 season saw him score 23 goals in 44 games, generating significant transfer speculation before his eventual move to Dortmund.
