OPINION
Liverpool and Barcelona have had many memorable clashes in the past, none more so than last seasons incredible Champions League semi-final.
The Spaniards will surely still have nightmares about that night at Anfield, and how they managed to let a three-goal lead slip in a 4-0 defeat, thanks to goals from Divock Origi and Georginio Wijnaldum.
Many players have crossed between the two sides before as well, with Luis Suarez one of the latest to do so. With the Uruguayan forward not getting any younger, the Spanish giants have been reportedly on the lookout for a number nine.
Mundo Deportivo have reported that Barcelona are considering different options such as Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappe, and Tottenham hitman Harry Kane.
The Spanish outlet also claim that Manchester United star Marcus Rashford is also on their radar, and actually convinces them much more than Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino.
It is suggested that Rashford’s age is a major factor behind him being preferred, and not there is no consensus to complete a deal for the world-class Brazilian.
That is superb news for all involved at Liverpool, and the Reds’ fans will surely be breathing a sigh of relief, especially after how phenomenal the 28-year-old has been in the past couple of seasons.
Firmino has been nothing short of superb for Jurgen Klopp’s side and is establishing himself as one of the best number nines in the world – with his ability to both provide and score goals with ease.
The Brazilian international has scored three and assisted three goals this season already in his eight appearances, and is matching his prolific teammates, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, in being as dangerous in the final third.
Firmino has completed 2.5 dribbles per game this season according to WhoScored, the most in the entire Liverpool squad, as well as having three shots on goal – a stat only bettered by Salah for the Reds.
It will certainly be Barcelona’s loss and Liverpool’s gain should they consider other options to be their next number nine at the Nou Camp, and Reds’ fans will be breathing a sigh of relief that their Brazilian forward is not being considered.
