Pundit warns Klopp that Bellingham would not be able to replace key Liverpool midfielder

Former Premier League defender Stephen Kelly has warned Jurgen Klopp that Jude Bellingham cannot replace Jordan Henderson for Liverpool.

Klopp and Liverpool have been long-term admirers of Bellingham and they are keen on striking a deal in the summer.

Plenty of other clubs from around Europe also hold an interest in the Borussia Dortmund midfielder, .

Kelly thinks that while Bellingham would be an “amazing” signing for Liverpool, but he would have to play a different role to that of Henderson.

“When Henderson is fit, that’s great because you know he brings that energy,” Kelly told the BBC Football Daily podcast. “But because he’s getting injured all the time, that shows he cannot do it on a regular basis. So you need to replace him.

“That has been coming for a while. The rest of the players in there, Fabinho has not been the same. (Stefan) Bajcetic; excellent. But can you rely on an 18-year-old?

“Bellingham going there would be amazing for them,” Kelly adds. “But I don’t think you want him replacing Henderson because you don’t want him to do that job of covering the full-back.

“The middle of the park really sets out how Liverpool play with the full-backs getting high and (the midfielders) covering their positions.

“It’s so hard if you don’t have those players available. It’s a very difficult decision for Liverpool to be in.”

Henderson has started in 14 league matches this season and has made a further nine appearances from the bench.

While his experience and work ethic cannot be questioned, it is only natural that Liverpool are now looking at alternative options in the middle.

Bellingham could definitely thrive in a Klopp system at Liverpool, but his role would be significantly different to that of Henderson.

The 19-year-old has scored 10 goals for Dortmund this season and is perhaps more effective further up the pitch than Henderson.

as he is yet to sign a new deal with the London club.

Liverpool are expected to be busy in the summer window and their league finish this season could determine who they are able to sign.

Klopp’s side currently sit sixth in the Premier League and are six points behind Tottenham, although they do have a game in hand.