Liverpool may have found their perfect Roberto Firmino replacement if they’re willing to wait – RTK View

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Liverpool may have their ideal Roberto Firmino replacement in mind – if they’re willing to wait. 2023 could be a year of big changes.

2023 promises to be a year of serious change at Liverpool as several players come to the end of their contracts. Now, it’s entirely possible that a few sign new deals – Mohamed Salah will certainly have a new offer on the table.

But others now face questionable futures and one of those is Roberto Firmino. The Brazilian has barely played by his standards this season, ahead of entering the final year of his contract this summer.

It could well be that Liverpool offer him a new one and move forward with Firmino. It could also be that they decide to move on to someone new as their no.9 moves into his 30s.

And if that is the case, we think Liverpool might have found the ideal replacement in Christopher Nkunku.

Christopher Nkunku can replace Roberto Firmino at Liverpool

Replacing Firmino is virtually impossible as he has a very unique skillset. He’s a goal-threat while also being a wonderfully creative player. His work-rate is second to none and he can lead Liverpool’s press.

So when it comes to finding his successor, Liverpool almost certainly need to focus on a vague type that fits into the side. That’ll be a versatile forward, someone who offers a bit of everything and can bring the kind of movement up top that the other players require.

Which is why it’s interesting that ESPN have Liverpool down as wanting Christopher Nkunku. The Frenchman has 30 goals and 14 assists this season, playing primarily as a False 9. The Reds aren’t going to find a better fit to fill the Firmino void.

RB Leipzig are adamant that Nkunku won’t leave before 2023, however. We think that might be perfect. It’s highly unlikely that Liverpool see any value in moving Firmino on this summer and he almost certainly plays a role until 2023 at the latest.

With changes almost certainly happening that year, Nkunku would be perfectly placed to arrive. This year is likely a little too soon but 2023? Perfect. The timing here might be everything Liverpool wanted.