Liverpool possess arguably one of the finest attacks in world football and the Merseyside club are keen to further bolster their frontline with the signing of Sporting Lisbon’s Pedro Goncalves next summer.
According to Record (h/t Sport Witness), Goncalves is at the top of Liverpool’s priority list, with the Reds lining up a summer move for the Portugal international.
Goncalves has transformed into one of the finest attacking talents over the past couple of seasons. The 23-year-old, who honed his skills in Valencia and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ academies, joined Sporting last year and instantly cemented his spot in the first team.
Goncalves netted 23 times in just 32 appearances for Sporting last season, finishing as the league’s top scorer and helping his side lift the title.
He was rewarded for his sensational performances with a maiden call-up to the Portugal national team, making his debut in a friendly against Spain earlier this year.
Goncalves will not be available for cheap. The Portuguese has five years left on his current contract and as per Record, Liverpool will have to meet his €80 million (£67.5m) release clause to prise him away from Sporting.
Pedro Goncalves – What would he add to Liverpool?
Liverpool do not have much depth in attack and need to strengthen next summer if they are to continue to challenge the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City for the Premier League title.
Mohamed Salah has carried the Reds’ attack on his shoulders this season, but the Egyptian’s future is up in the air and it remains to be seen if he will sign a new contract with the club.
Sadio Mane has shown flashes of brilliance this season, but he remains inconsistent, as does Diogo Jota. Roberto Firmino, meanwhile, is not an out-and-out goal-scorer.
Thus, a move for Goncalves makes sense. The Portuguese is versatile and can play anywhere across the frontline or even behind the striker. He has fantastic technical and dribbling ability, and his passing and vision have earned comparisons with Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes. Last season, he averaged 1.3 dribbles and 1.6 key passes per game in the league.
His skill set will help Liverpool break down low blocks, something they have struggled with in recent seasons. The Portuguese is also extremely composed in front of goal and converts a high number of chances
Goncalves will undoubtedly add plenty of flair, creativity and goals to the Liverpool squad, but the €80m release clause is expected to be a sticking point in the deal.