Transfer story
Liverpool’s defence has troubled them since the days of Roy Hodgson as even Jürgen Klopp has failed to shore up a leaky Liverpool back line. Rectifying the earlier mistakes must be high on the club’s priority list this summer as the reports about the interest on Virgil van Dijk prove that Liverpool are heading in the right direction.
Along with a centre-back and a left-back, signing a right-back should be the Reds’ aim to provide enough competition for Nathaniel Clyne as with the increased number of games next season, Liverpool will need the manpower to challenge on all fronts.
Andrea Conti, the 23-year old Atalanta utility player has been linked with Liverpool in recent days. The Reds have scouted him on numerous occasions and are ready to spend the needed £15 million for him with Conti’s contract expiring in 2021. Chelsea, Juventus, Napoli and Sevilla are also interested in the Italian and Liverpool must offer him good wages along with an assurance of playing time which will lure him to Anfield.
Player stats
With 30 appearances under his belt in the Serie A this season, Conti has taken the league by storm after netting seven goals and mustering five assists from a predominantly right-back position.
With one shot and one key pass per game, he combines his attacking threat with his astute defending. He also averages 2 tackles and 2.4 interceptions per game. Conti is soon expected to play for his national side with 14 caps already going to his name at the Italy u21 level. (Stats via Whoscored)
What will he offer to the club?
His versatility sets him apart from the other full-backs. Along with being a brilliant right-back, Conti can slot in effortlessly into a midfield role and as a result of his pace can also play on the wings.
He is a strong physical defender who can burst forward and provide an alternative to the wide players. Conti’s signing will bring a sense of relief to Liverpool’s squad as even injuries to key players won’t affect them much with the 23-year old on their side.
Worth the money?
Priced at just close to £15 million, Conti will be a steal if Liverpool can manage to sign him. Interest in him from all the big teams suggest that there is something in this player which sets him apart from the other defensive players that are being linked with the club.
Klopp is said to be a fan of the Italian and wants to work with him soon. He can prove to be a smart buy on Liverpool’s part as a versatile utility player who is also a brilliant defender as well, is what Liverpool lack at the moment.
