Why signing Marco Asensio would make Liverpool strong title contenders
Liverpool are in the market to fill the Philippe Coutinho-sized hole in their front line since the Brazilian’s departure in January. Lyon captain Nabil Fekir had been identified as the potential replacement and was close to signing for the Reds earlier this month. The player even had a medical before talks between the two sides quickly collapsed for unknown reasons. Since then, reports have emerged of Liverpool’s interest in Real Madrid star Marco Asensio.
The 22-year-old midfielder’s contract runs until 2023 and he has a whopping €500million release clause. Asensio can play across the midfield and his presence would make him a valuable resource for Jurgen Klopp especially since the Reds often struggle to break down deep-sitting sides.
Liverpool are claimed to have made an official €180m bid for the Spanish international. This represents a major statement of intent for the club.
Towards the business end of last season, Liverpool’s lack of squad depth was evident following injuries to the likes of Emre Can and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. During the Champions League final against Real Madrid in Kiev, the Reds had no alternative but to bring on a half-fit Adam Lallana when Mo Salah came off after just an hour.
Under former manager Zidane, Asensio failed to cement a starting role for himself. Out of his 53 appearances across competitions, Asensio only started 25 times. However, the left-footed youngster scored 11 goals and six assists. Often deployed on the left-wing at Santiago Bernabeu, a move to Anfield would see him start centrally further up the pitch and behind Brazilian Roberto Firmino.
Capable of playing defence-splitting passes and taking sumptuous Countinho-esque long shots, you can’t bet against him quickly establishing himself as a fan favourite in front of The Kop.
Heading into next season, Liverpool must search for their first league title since 1990. To that end, a move for Marco Asensio could prove to be beneficial as he might be the man to unlock stubborn defences and help Liverpool to their first trophy of the Premier League era.
That said, it is doubtful as to whether or not Asensio would make it into Liverpool’s starting XI. The Reds’ pockets aren’t that deep and it remains to be seen if Madrid are willing to sell.
Since Klopp’s arrival, Liverpool have shunned the Moneyball transfer policy but the amount quoted here would double the £75million the Reds shelled out to land Virgil van Dijk in January. The defender’s performances since have justified his price but as far as a deal for Asensio is concerned, we must wait and watch.