Juventus could now be preparing to propose Liverpool a swap deal for Roberto Firmino.
That’s according to Calciomercatoweb, who claim that Juve may ask for the Liverpool forward in return for midfielder Adrien Rabiot.
They claim that the Italian giants are also interested in ‘exploiting the Rabiot card’ in exchange for Naby Keita.
According to Calciomercatoweb, Liverpool value Firmino, who has a year left on his contract, at £26m – £30m.
No-go for Naby
Rabiot’s name has now cropped up a couple of times in relation to Liverpool. It seems that the Frenchman is available for a knock-down fee this summer, and wants a move to the Premier League.
However, it seems virtually impossible that Liverpool would entertain either of the swap deals mentioned here.
Rabiot’s a good player, no doubt about that. He was once even labelled ‘complete’ by none other than Andrea Pirlo via Goal.
Despite that, he’s arguably a downgrade on Keita. Liverpool need extra bodies in midfield, it simply doesn’t make any kind of sense to swap one 27-year-old for another at this stage.
Bobby staying put
Then there’s Firmino. Although he is out of contract this time next year, there appears to have been little movement in regards to a new deal for the Brazilian.
That may still come, though. He’s reportedly happy at the club and, despite is injury issues, still has a big role to play.
Having already lost Sadio Mane, Takumi Minamio and Divock Origi this summer, it’s impossible that Jurgen Klopp would sanction Bobby’s exit too.
Liverpool’s resolve may be tested if Juventus are willing to put a bid in around the £30m mark. If that doesn’t happen though, fully expect Liverpool’s number 9 to be at the club next season.
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