Niall Corcoran takes a look at what Nabil Fekir could offer Liverpool if the 24-year-old signed for the Reds this summer.
With all the rumours surrounding Lyon skipper Nabil Fekir’s move to Liverpool in the summer, here is everything you need to know about the midfielder.
Despite Klopp not saying too much about the potential transfer, this hasn’t stopped Fekir’s name being thrown around in the rumour mill. However, the French press has already released news stating that the clubs have already agreed on a fee for the influential Fekir.
The price is believed to be around the £62 million mark, a hefty fee for the young star, but Liverpool fans will have trouble doubting Klopp after previous purchases for the club and the famous front three the man has constructed.
One of the main justifications for the heavy price tag will be due to Fekir’s good form this season, grabbing 22 goals and 7 assists in 38 games for Lyon. Not quite on the level of Mohamed Salah’s incredible form this season, but he will still add an increased output to the Reds’ midfield if the rumours are to be believed.
Fekir will be a much needed replacement in the absence of Liverpool’s former star man Phillipe Coutinho, who brought a creative edge to the side, a trait that Fekir has shown he can fulfil.
During Klopp’s post-match conference on Sunday at Stamford Bridge, he was questioned about the potential deal between the two clubs and replied: “During the game, we agreed a deal?! I would be surprised about that to be honest. No comment.”
The manager laughs at the reports of a fee being agreed during the game, however, he doesn’t completely disregard the rumours of Liverpool’s interest in the player.
Fekir also had something to say regarding the rumours, telling the press: “There’s nothing for the moment. I’m still at Lyon. There are two matches left, we’ll prepare for them in the best possible way.”
He then gave a direct answer to the rumours: “At the end of the season, we’ll see, but for the moment there’s nothing.” Liverpool fans will be happy to see that this deal looks to be on the table as of now, with neither Klopp or Fekir totally disregarding these rumours.
However, despite the rumours, it will be a challenge to make an offer strong enough to convince Fekir to depart Lyon, who has been at the club since 2011,and has not played for another club outside his youth career. He would also have to leave his home country of France in order to join the Reds in the summer.
Chelsea are also now believed to be in the race to sign Fekir and once again Liverpool find themselves competing with Chelsea in the transfer window. This is according to French news site, L’Equipe.
One of Liverpool’s men in form Sadio Mané also had some praise for the potential signing after the side’s loss to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. He told SFR Sport: “He is a top player, we would be happy seeing him with us. Yes, it will be like fire if he comes.”
If these rumours are to be true, is Fekir the man to bring back the creative spark in the midfield that Liverpool have been somewhat lacking since Coutinho’s departure to Barcelona in January?
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