Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool have been pushed into the transfer market, thanks to the sale of Philippe Coutinho earlier this month. The money they got in return will definitely see the Reds improve quality and numbers for their entire squad but they will also have to find an able replacement for the Brazilian, who was one of the most important players at the club, in the last few years.
A number of exciting names are doing the rounds at the moment but one story that is getting a mixed reaction from Liverpool fans is West Ham United star Manuel Lanzini.
Liverpool consider Lanzini
A transfer target for the Reds even before he joined West Ham United, Lanzini could yet play for the Reds, at least according to Bleacher Report. According to their sources, Liverpool are keeping a tab on the Argentine international and they state that this is a move that could go through before the end of the season.
The story claims that Liverpool have AS Monaco star Thomas Lemar as their prime transfer target but are interested in Leicester City’s Riyad Mahrez and Lanzini as alternatives. West Ham are reportedly not ready to sanction a deal but if Liverpool offer enough, they may be able to land him this January.
Lanzini and his style of play
An attacking midfielder, who can also play on the wing, Lanzini is a gifted footballer who has great close control and technical ability. He is adept at creating chances with through balls on the ground and in the air and is the most creative outlet for West Ham United for the last couple of years.
He can dribble past opponents with ease but is more effective in breaking defences up with short passes. He is not the hardest worker on the field but does not shy away from his defensive responsibilities.
He has 15 goals and 10 assists 77 PL appearances to date including a goal and six assists this season. He struggles with consistency at times but on his day, is a genuine match winner.
Can he replace Philippe Coutinho at Anfield?
The truth is, not many players in the current transfer market can replace Coutinho. His creativity and skill are too hard to find but Lanzini is not too far behind. He may not have the kind of spark that Coutinho has but he is more than capable of producing the goods when necessary.
His numbers are not too shabby and the fact that he is still 24, makes him an attractive buy. He is not cup-tied, can play in the role Coutinho has vacated and makes more sense than most other names thrown into the mix recently on social media.
It may take some convincing for West Ham to sell in January, especially when they are struggling but Lanzini is a safe investment, at least because he will give the Reds enough time to work on another transfer target in the summer.
