OPINION
Liverpool have been continuously linked with making big-money moves for some of La Liga’s brightest talents.
Both Phillipe Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele have been linked with moves to Anfield, and now Eldesmarque has reported the Reds to be interested in a move for Real Madrid playmaker Marco Asensio.
The Spanish publication has claimed that Zinedine Zidane is interested in Liverpool winger Sadio Mane in any potential deal for Asensio, who Jurgen Klopp is reported to be willing to pay £67.3million for.
Liverpool must think twice before letting Mane leave the club, with the Senegalese international becoming a pivotal man in the Champions League winners’ squad – and must find a new role for Asensio should they push through with their reported interest.
The Madrid playmaker wouldn’t be able to force Mane out of Klopp’s side with the 27-year-old outscoring the Spaniard in almost every department – looking at their stats via WhoScored, there is hope for Asensio though.
The 23-year-old looks after the ball much better once in possession, being dispossessed fewer times and also taking fewer bad touches on average per game. This could lead to Asensio being moved more central, where he can get on the ball much more often in more threatening positions.
Comparing the Madrid maestro to one of Liverpool’s more advanced midfield options in Georginio Wijnaldum, it is clear to see that Asensio would be a better option in front of their midfield anchor, Fabinho.
Asensio delivered more assists for his teammates last season, and also averaged more shots and key passes per game, something that would suit Liverpool perfect in-behind their prolific front-three.
The 23-year-old also averages almost double the number of dribbles per game, proving he likes to run at the opposition defence more often than the former Newcastle man.
Klopp must make sure that Madrid stay as far away as possible from Mane, but still pursue the signing of Asensio, who would suit a deeper midfield role in behind the forward three perfectly at Anfield.
