Liverpool have been touted as one of the three possible destinations for Napoli left-back Faouzi Ghoulam. Reputed Italian journalist Ciro Venerato has claimed that the Algerian is certain to leave Naples at the end of the season while speaking to TV network RAI.
Ghoulam has been with Napoli since 2014 and is now set to enter the final year of his existing contract which runs until 2018. Napoli are now under pressure to either make the player sign a new deal or lose him for free at the end of next summer. The best option for the club would be to cash in on the player this summer, but that would bring a really low sum as transfer fees, considering the quality player that Ghoulam is.
Liverpool’s problems at the back are well known and they have had to manage the lack of quality and depth at the left-back position by deploying experienced Englishman James Milner out there. Despite Milner’s admirable performances for the Reds, the defensive record of the Anfield outfit looks quite weak compared to the other 5 teams in the top-6 of the Premier League table.
The Reds have the worst defensive record among the top-6 sides in the league and certainly, improvement seems necessary. The 26-year old Ghoulam would be a great fit for Liverpool.
The Kop Times Verdict
The fullback is known for his attacking prowess, with his defensive abilities being default since it is his natural position. Ghoulam is a good crosser, is good with his passing and does not dive into tackles. Jurgen Klopp’s playing style would suit most of the left-backs with good attacking ability and hence, there is no need to worry too much about Ghoulam’s compatibility with Klopp’s Liverpool squad.
The Algerian has 7 assists to his name from 33 appearances this season and has been on the pitch for approximately 2700 minutes. This serves as a testament to his fitness levels and the German manager at Anfield would love someone like Ghoulam.
However, Liverpool may have to fight the interest from Tottenham and Atletico Madrid according to Venerato. It is possible that the Napoli defender would prefer joining Liverpool ahead of Tottenham and Atletico as the real necessity for a left-back is at Anfield and not at the other two clubs mentioned.
Do you think Liverpool need to sign Faouzi Ghoulam?
