According to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth (h/t the Express), Liverpool’s signing of Switzerland international Xherdan Shaqiri from Stoke City could lead to three deals involving Premier League clubs.
“One man that has definitely signed for Liverpool is, of course, Xherdan Shaqiri,” Sheth said on Sky Sports News (h/t the Express)
“The Swiss international moved from Stoke City for £13.5m and the transfer could accelerate a few other deals.
“Stoke are in advanced talks with Newcastle United over the signing of winger Matt Ritchie.
“It’s thought the clubs are still apart on their valuations, with Newcastle’s asking price around £15m. We’re told though that Ritchie is open to the transfer.
“If the Ritchie deal can be done, then Newcastle could fund a move for the Crystal Palace winger Andros Townsend.
“One source has told us it would take at least £17m to take Townsend back to St James’ Park but Palace manager Roy Hodgson says he has no interest in selling.
“But despite Hodgson’s comments, it seems Palace are looking around for potential Townsend replacements.
“Top of their list is West Ham United’s Michail Antonio. It’s thought West Ham would consider offers upwards of £15m. I think you call that the domino effect.”
It is indeed bizarre to see our club signing a player that may lead to further deals involving three different clubs. But that shouldn’t be our concern as we have finally landed the player we were chasing.
Shaqiri became Jurgen Klopp’s third signing of the summer as he joined for a bargain £13m due to a relegation release clause in his Stoke contract. Of course, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane will continue to be in the starting XI but having an experienced and proven Premier League player lined up behind them is crucial for our club to challenge for silverware next season.
The stocky 26-year-old, who was a shining light for Switzerland in the recently concluded World Cup, should be able to provide quality back up at the very least and perhaps even serious competition to Salah. Considering his talent, experience and quality, there is very low risk attached to this signing.
Shaqiri’s career has been rather strange as he juggled from FC Basel to Bayern Munich and then to Inter Milan before ending up at Stoke City three years ago. In a Stoke side devoid of creativity and energy, the Swiss ace was their star performer last season.
The move to our club will allow Shaqiri to play at a really high level again.
