Dietmar Hamann criticises Liverpool’s £40m transfer after hijacking Chelsea move

Ex- Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann has criticised Liverpool’s signing of England international Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, as he believes the player does not add any value to an already “unbalanced” team. Hamann also took a dig at Liverpool’s defence, who struggled in a 2-2 draw against Benfica in their first group match of the UEFA Champions League.

The Reds agreed on a £40million fee with North London giant Arsenal for the transfer of Oxlade Chamberlain on transfer deadline day, shortly after Liverpool dispatched Arsenal 4-0 at Anfield Stadium.

Reigning Premier League champions Chelsea had also reportedly agreed on a transfer fee with the Gunners to sign the versatile midfielder, but the 24-year-old winger was interested in playing in his preferred central midfield position – something that Liverpool tactician Jurgen Klopp is ready to offer him at Anfield Stadium.

However, the former Liverpool midfielder feels the Ox would not add value to the team, and the side would have been better off signing a solid defender.

The German told RTÉ Sport: “On the (Substitute) bench tonight, you (the team) had (Danny) Sturridge, (Philippe) Coutinho and (Alex) Oxlade-Chamberlain – I (Hamann) am not sure why he (Chamberlin) was bought (signed). In defence, you (the team) have the (players) likes of (Alberto) Moreno and (Dejan) Lovren.