Liverpool’s 2-2 draw in the match against Sunderland did highlight an issue as the Reds were down to their bare bones in terms of fit attackers. Daniel Sturridge did pick up an injury again and with Philippe Coutinho injured at the moment and Sadio Mane leaving for the African Cup of Nations, the Reds need to bring in an attacker that can fit into the first team squad.
While the Reds have been linked with a number of players prior to the winter window, the reports from the Mirror has mentioned that Liverpool have turned their attention to RB Leipzig star Emil Forsberg. The 25-year-old Swedish winger has had a great season at RB Leipzig, who have been a breath of fresh air in the Bundesliga and are the closest challengers to Bayern Munich.
There are reports suggesting that Leipzig would only entertain bids of £20m or more and would actually talk to the player before any deal is made. There were also reports stating that the Reds have sent a number of scouts to watch Forsberg play this season.
A winger in the Mane mould?
The winger has scored five goals and provided eight assists in 15 Bundesliga appearances. Forsberg can play in a number of positions and that would certainly be handy to Klopp as he looks to rotate his side and use his players in various positions on the field.
The 25-year-old can play out wide or centrally and is someone who does a lot of defensive tracking as well. His ability to pick out a pass and dribbling skills does make him a great option to have in the side and his valuation isn’t the highest either, though it could lead to a bidding war to bring him to any of his suitors.
Hasan Cetinkaya, his agent, also was quoted regarding the future of the Swedish star and stated that a number of bids were already on the table.
“I have already been in meetings with major clubs regarding Forsberg. I have a picture in front of me. I will also be meeting with RB Leipzig”. Hasan Cetinkaya told Aftonbladet in December.
The 25-year-old is certainly having a great season and he would be a great fit for Klopp’s side. The stumbling block remains that Forsberg is actually having a great season at the moment and moving in the winter window certainly would put him in a bit of trouble when it comes to playing for a new club.
Liverpool might have to wait till the summer but should they be willing to break the bank, Forsberg could easily be the Mane replacement we all have been craving.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGRoREiGaQU
