Liverpool FC are reportedly interested in adding to their already brilliant squad by signing Isco. Though not many saw it coming, eldesmarque.com have linked the Spanish midfielder with the Premier League table-toppers. Jurgen Klopp’s side has already signed Takumi Minamino from Red Bull Salzburg for £7.25m as a back-up option for his first choice attacking trio. They have also acquired the signature of promising youngster Joe Hardy. They might make a surprising third signing in this window or in the summer if the report is to be believed.
Isco was once one of the most important members of the Real Madrid side. But things have changed for him, and now he is considered an excess under Zinedine Zidane, with the nimble-footed Spaniard never managing to cement his place in the starting eleven.
Los Blancos are reportedly set to sign Ajax’s talented midfielder Donny Van de Beek even though the player has rightly denied reports of any deal having being completed. They are also linked with some big names. With that in mind, Zidane is ready to let a few players leave, so as to free up some funds.
The player who once was a regular name in the starting XI has played only 17 games this season. Isco has scored 49 goals for Real Madrid so far, but this undoubtedly is his worst year at the club. He has been able to register his name on the score-sheet only once. To add to his misery, he has failed to get a single assist this season.
Isco: Is he a sensible choice for the Reds?
With Zidane not rating the player highly, Real Madrid have already started to plan his departure. Reports have claimed that they offered Isco to Chelsea a few weeks ago, for just £44million. Hence, Liverpool might be able to get him for a cutthroat price.
Though the price might be justified, the deal isn’t.
The first question that is bound to come up is – where will Liverpool fit Isco in? He is primarily an attacking midfielder, who can also play as a central midfielder and a left-winger and at times on the right as well.
Jurgen Klopp likes to play a 4-3-3 formation. In his system, Fabinho plays the role of a defensive screen, helping out the centre-backs. Jordan Henderson and Georginio Wijnaldum play on either side.
Hence, Isco will certainly not fit in Fabinho’s position, for he is not known for his defensive abilities. Though he can be used on either side, it is very unlikely. Georginio Wijnaldum is enjoying the form of his life, whereas Jordan Henderson is the skipper of the side. As for Isco’s abilities as a left-winger, Liverpool have a certain Sadio Mane in that position who is nearly impossible to replace, as is Mohamed Salah on the right.
Hence, all Isco can actually be is a backup but bereft of the dizzying work rate Klopp’s current set of first-team midfielders possess. With that in mind, investing around £44million for the player seems unjustifiable and we feel the deal is a non-starter.