Rumor Mongering: Hector Extends Contract

In news that will disappoint many Liverpool fans, FC Köln today confirmed that long-rumored transfer target Jonas Hector has signed a five-year contract extension and will remain at the German club for the foreseeable future.

“I am a happy part of this team” Germany’s starting left back explained for Köln’s official site. “For me, everything fits, so a contract extension is indeed a next logical step.”

While football contracts are notorious for being about as firm as the paper they’re written on, the timing of the execution of this extension would suggest Hector is not going anywhere. The player’s words further undermine any last hopes one may have had Hector would come join the Kloppolution.

Said hopes are the grist that runs the Rumor Mill. Hector to Liverpool started as a [insert german player] + [insert Liverpool position-of-need] story, and there was never a reliable report confirming any interest by Liverpool. Of course, the rumor had the advantage of actually making sense, and one would be forgiven for believing Hector was on the notorious list maintained by the transfer committee.

To be disappointed is understandable, but dwell not, Reds. The club have shown remarkable skill this transfer window, bringing in players that show a unified vision insofar as all acquisitions appear to be one of two kinds: (a) an adequate depth signing (Klavan); or (b) a player that possesses talents one would expect in a Klopp side.

Jürgen appears as clear-eyed and rational as any when it comes to identifying players’ talents and a squad’s weakness; on the evidence so far, one would feel safe assuming that if the manager wants another back, he will get one.

We are fast approaching the end of the window, and while the need for additional defensive cover has been discussed ad nauseum, that doesn’t change the facts on the ground: we likely are one injury away from some interesting lineup conundrums unless Jaunma is much, much better than expected. One hopes Ian will enjoy tomorrow’s game - particularly the debut of Sadio Mane - then start working the fax machines to find some needed depth for Liverpool’s defensive flanks.