It looks like Liverpool are going to have to step up their search for a Luis Suarez replacement as media reports begin to filter in confirming that Alexis Sanchez has chosen to move to Arsenal instead of making the move to Merseyside.
Talks were held over the weekend with the Chilean’s representatives, and though no firm decision was made right then, the verdict now appears to be in. With both clubs willing to meet Barcelona’s £30mil asking price, it all came down to personal preference and the player’s family are reportedly keen to live in the capital. Although this certainly complicates the Anfield outfit’s search for a suitable replacement for Suarez, it should expedite the Uruguayan’s move to the Catalan giants with one of the major stumbling blocks out of the way.
Barcelona has already agreed to pay the buy-out clause in the embattled strikers contract — which is reportedly in the region of £75mil — and only the payment structure is yet to be agreed upon between the two sides. Despite the near completion of the deal being nothing short of public knowledge, the La Liga giants are staying tight lipped on the situation. “We are working towards building the best squad possible before the transfer window shuts and it’s positive that people are travelling (in order to sign players) but it’s important that we only communicate official deals,” Barca sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta said. “When we have reached one, we will announce it.”
The Reds are moving quickly to plug up any potential attacking vaccum that Suarez’s departure may cause and are looking to wrap up the double signing of Lille striker Divock Origi and Benfica winger Lazar Markovic in the coming days. Still, a recognized, senior striker is still thought to be a major priority at Anfield, though prices are expected to sky-rocket as soon as the Suarez deal is made official.
