Liverpool’s Premier League triumph beneath Arne Slot was an announcement. Not nearly profitable, however about constructing a brand new period post-Klopp. With the summer season window now in full swing, switch exercise is already intensifying and has reported that the Reds have held talks with Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.
Commercial
The 26-year-old Nigeria worldwide spent final season on mortgage at Galatasaray, the place he scored a staggering 37 objectives and registered 8 assists in 41 video games. Described by Gianfranco Zola as “an entire participant”, Osimhen is likely one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe this summer season.
However Liverpool should not alone of their pursuit. Manchester United are additionally eager, but the Premier League champions may simply have the sting.
Picture: IMAGO
Liverpool’s Summer time Ambition Indicators Severe Intent
Liverpool should not pausing to have fun their title win. Slot and new sporting director Richard Hughes have already secured Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen and are actively pursuing additional reinforcements, together with Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and Bayer’s Florian Wirtz.
Commercial
Nevertheless, the necessity for a real No. 9 has remained a precedence. In response to TBR Soccer, “Liverpool ‘held talks with Osimhen’s camp final month’,” a transparent signal of intent from the Anfield hierarchy.
Napoli are reportedly able to promote and the £63 million launch clause makes the deal comparatively easy from a valuation standpoint. Nevertheless it’s Osimhen’s wage calls for that current a major hurdle. “GiveMeSport reported final month that Osimhen needs as a lot as £400,000 per week as wage at his subsequent membership.”
Why Osimhen Suits Liverpool’s System
Beneath Slot, Liverpool’s attacking play has shifted in direction of a extra direct and structured form, and Osimhen could possibly be the ultimate piece in that puzzle. His power, motion and deadly ending would supply a constant purpose risk, whereas additionally serving to stretch defences, creating extra room for the likes of Salah, Diaz and Szoboszlai.
Commercial
At Galatasaray, Osimhen proved he can thrive beneath strain, serving to them to a home double. That pedigree, alongside his bodily profile and tactical intelligence, makes him tailored for the Premier League. The Nigerian striker shouldn’t be solely prolific but additionally disciplined, providing extra than simply objectives.
Picture: IMAGO
Man United additionally
TBR Soccer additionally stories that Manchester United “held talks with the 26-year-old striker’s camp final month.” United stay available in the market for a confirmed ahead and have additionally contacted Sporting CP over Viktor Gyokeres. However United’s lack of Champions League soccer and relative instability could tip the scales in Liverpool’s favour.
Commercial
As TBR notes, “Liverpool… are the Premier League champions and won’t solely play within the Champions League subsequent season, however they may even intention to win it.” That form of ambition is more likely to enchantment to a participant of Osimhen’s calibre.
Monetary Problem Might Determine Consequence
Whereas Osimhen’s launch clause is palatable, his wage calls for push the bounds of Liverpool’s conventional pay construction. The £400,000-per-week request exceeds even Mohamed Salah’s present phrases and should require compromise from each events. Nevertheless, if Liverpool consider Osimhen is the lacking hyperlink of their squad, they might select to flex financially.
Our View – Anfield Index Evaluation
From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this appears like a defining second within the Slot period. After a triumphant title-winning season, including somebody of Victor Osimhen’s calibre could possibly be the kind of elite transfer that units the tone for a dynasty quite than a one-off success.
Commercial
Osimhen is not only a goalscorer, he’s a tone-setter. Watching him bulldoze by defences in Turkey and lead the road with authority reminds many supporters of peak Suarez or Torres. With Darwin Núñez nonetheless struggling for consistency, and Diogo Jota liable to accidents, this transfer simply is smart.
That mentioned, the £400,000-per-week wage raises eyebrows. It goes in opposition to the FSG mannequin. However with the likes of United sniffing round, it might be time to adapt. Titles are received on the pitch, not on the stability sheet. Followers will hope the membership sees this as a uncommon alternative so as to add a world-class ahead who’s coming into his peak years.
The truth that he has reportedly turned down Saudi riches to chase Premier League and Champions League goals is a large optimistic. It reveals he’s hungry. And Liverpool want gamers who need to battle, not simply accumulate a cheque.
If Hughes and Slot can pull this off, it will be one of many signings of the summer season.