Liverpool have got world class attackers in the squad and it must be remembered that the likes of Mane and Salah won the Golden Boot after netting 22 goals each in the last Premier League campaign.
As per reports in France, the Merseysiders are looking to further strengthen their offense by signing a proven quality playmaker in the form of Lille’s Nicolas Pepe.
France Football issue their magazine every Tuesday and in today’s version, they have claimed that it is going to be a crazy transfer window as numerous Ligue 1 stars could end up leaving France.
Transfer Story – Contact made – Liverpool in the race to sign £212,000-a-week star
The Magazine also discusses the English dominance in Europe this season and mentions that the top PL clubs are interested in luring players from the Ligue 1. As far as Pepe is concerned, it is stated that Liverpool are clearly interested in the Ivorian international but they are not the only ones. Even the Gunners and the Red Devils are looking to lure the highly rated playmaker.
Stats & playing position
The 23-year-old African star was sensational for Lille in the recently concluded Ligue 1 campaign. He featured in all 38 league games and directly contributed in no fewer than 33 goals (22 goals and 11 assists).
Thanks to his top performances, Lille finished the season as runners up and booked their place in the next season’s Champions League.
Pepe is a speedy left footed attacker, who normally plays on the right wing. Having viewed his performances, I have observed that like Robben and Salah, the Ivorian likes to cut in on his stronger foot.
Liverpool’s wide attacking positions
At Anfield, Mane mainly starts on the left wing and Salah starts on the right wing. The duo are priceless and irreplaceable in my view. Still, the Reds lack depth.
Shaqiri has mainly covered in the absence of Salah and basically, there is no natural left winger in the team to cover for Mane. At times, Origi has played on the left but he is naturally an out and out center forward.
So, Klopp needs to splash the cash to improve the wide attacking positions.
Player’s contract and price tag
Pepe’s contract with the French club will expire in three years and last month, The Express reported that the winger is valued at £60million.
I think that the player’s price tag is fair after such a top season. However, Liverpool really do not need to splash the above mentioned fee just to improve their attacking depth. Not to forget, Mane and Salah were lured for £34million (BBC) and £36.9million (The Guardian) respectively.
