Liverpool are currently fielding arguably one of the best sides in the club's history and are certainly on a pedestal in the Premier League.

With a blistering attack and rounded defence, the Reds have built themselves into a dominant force. Jurgen Klopp has spearheaded this side to their sixth European title, first ever Premier League trophy and dozens of individual accolades for his star players.

However, one area of weakness the Reds still have is that they never fully replaced talisman Philippe Coutinho in midfield.

Whilst the £142million banked from his sale has changed the entire dynamic of the team by buying Virgil van Dijk and Alisson, Liverpool's current midfield personnel can't create the magic the Brazilian used to.

As it stands, scoring goals is far from a worry for the Merseyside outfit. Last season, Liverpool's front three scored a combined 46 goals in the Premier League alone (via WhoScored). But the reigning champions of England would be in very hot water if one of the trio were to pick up a serious injury.

Diogo Jota has already proved he could be something special under Jurgen Klopp, but having not yet played a full 90 minutes, he's a long way off to becoming a replacement for Mohamed Salah or Sadio Mane.

One thing the Reds have been surviving without is a driving force to lead their midfield. Albeit not exactly a problematic area, rival teams boast this kind of talent in the likes of Kevin de Bruyne and Bruno Fernandes. Liverpool's engine room is strong, but lacks the flair brought by Coutinho's vision and confidence in his ability to let fly a 30-yard screamer.

Takumi Minamino could be the closest thing they've seen to a 'Coutinho-style midfielder' since he left the club.

The Brazilian's final season saw him score seven goals in 14 Premier League appearances, similar to the Japan international's five goals in 14 appearances for RB Salzburg last term (via Squawka).

Minamino's overall goal tally so far is 84, just slightly less than Coutinho (96) but with three years on the ex-Liverpool man (via Transfermarkt).

The 25-year-old has already shown his more comfortable position is operating more centrally as opposed to on the wing. When deployed in this position against Lincoln City, Minamino bagged two goals and an assist, converting 100% of his shots on target.

Should Klopp choose to make the £7.25million signing a regular starter, he could slot in perfectly just behind Roberto Firmino and contribute to a new 'forward four' era.