Danny Murphy picks out his ‘PERFECT’ Jurgen Klopp successor once he decides to leave Liverpool… with pundit’s No 1 choice the ‘real deal’

• Jurgen Klopp has been linked with the vacant Germany job in recent days
• The 56-year-old manager’s agent has however thrown cold water on any links
• Listen to the latest episode of Mail Sport’s podcast It’s All Kicking Off 

Danny Murphy confessed that he has no worries around Jurgen Klopp leaving Liverpool, having already identified who he believes is the ‘perfect’ replacement. 

The 56-year-old boss has been linked with the vacant Germany national team role, after Hansi Flick was let go following a 4-1 defeat to Japan. 

Although the Reds manager’s agent has been quick to put some distance between his client and the reports, it has naturally led to speculation over who might be able to take the reins at Anfield. 

Klopp’s period in charge has been one of the most successful in the iconic club’s illustrious history – ending their 30-year wait for an English top-flight title and adding a sixth Champions League.

Yet Murphy has nonetheless lined up who he believes would be able to step in if the worst came to be for Liverpool fans and Klopp chose to walk away.  

Danny Murphy has identified who he believes should replace Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool

Klopp has been linked with the vacant Germany job recently, although his agent has thrown cold water over the reports

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‘I’ve got the answer, so I’m not worried about (Klopp leaving),’ Murphy said on talkSPORT. ‘I think De Zerbi is perfect. He’ll be ready then (to take over).

‘I think he plays great football, he looks a strong character, he’s learning his trade in this league with Brighton and doing it superbly well. I don’t see a better candidate.

‘Things change in football really quickly. So, the flavour of the month might be someone else this time next year,’ said the former England international. ‘But I think he’s (De Zerbi) the real deal.

‘There is something about him. After meeting him as well, (I can say) he’s got real gravitas. A real presence. And I love the way his teams play.

‘But I can’t see Klopp going for some time yet. He’s got this new influx of players, and he seems enthused by Liverpool’s start (to the season) and the promising start of some of the new signings.’

De Zerbi has won widespread plaudits for his work since taking over from Graham Potter – having been touted to perhaps struggle to fill those large boots on the South Coast. 

Having come in after the start of last season, the Italian inspired the Seagulls to reach European qualification for the first time in their history. 

In reaching the Europa League – where they will face Ajax, Marseille and AEK Athens – Brighton pulled off memorable wins over Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool. 

De Zerbi interestingly also has a brilliant record against Klopp, having won twice and drawn once against the German manager in three games, all of which came last season. 

Murphy believes De Zerbi is the ‘real deal’ and would be the ideal successor to Klopp at Anfield

The Italian masterminded Brighton’s historic Europa League qualification having taken over midway through last term

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