Liverpool have had a huge bid rejected for Alexander Isak as they attempt to bolster their forward options ahead of the new season.
The Reds have already added Hugo Ekitike to the ranks this summer, but appear determined to do even more business.
A deal being agreed for Isak is by no means guaranteed, however, with Liverpool needing to formulate a back-up plan just in case.
Newcastle are trying to change Isak’s mind over a dream move to Anfield and there is every chance they simply dig in their heels and refuse to do business.
In the meantime, there is a chance that in lieu of securing his top target, Arne Slot turns to the Liverpool academy in order to bolster his first-team squad.
And as Slot perhaps ponders dipping into the youth team in the hope of finding something special, he would be wise to take note of the pre-season form of Keyrol Figueroa.
Keyrol Figueroa hits three in three for Liverpool
When fans talk about the striking options in Liverpool’s youth teams, the focus tends to be on Jayden Danns.
Lewis Koumas has been hailed by Rob Page, the new U21s coach, and the Welshman is another who could come into Slot’s thinking.
However, as the Liverpool ECHO report, American striker Keyrol Figueroa is the one catching the eye in pre-season so far.
Although the ECHO focus on Danns’ comeback from injury and subsequent penalty goal in Tuesday’s friendly with French side Lens, it is also noted that Figueroa was on the scoresheet.
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The 18-year-old also scored in an 8-0 win over Celtic last week, and found the net when Liverpool drew 1-1 with his dad’s old side Wigan as well.
Kaide Gordon has also reportedly hit three goals in pre-season, scoring twice against Celtic and once against Lens.
Does Figueroa have a first team chance?
If Liverpool go on to sign Isak, then the likes of Figueroa and even Danns will surely see their first team chances all but disappear.
But if the Sweden international does not arrive, it is not beyond the realms of possibility that Slot does look to his academy.
If he does, then Figueroa should come into his thinking. Prolific in the underage sides, Figueroa has described himself as a ‘complete’ striker, which is something Liverpool are arguably missing.
Should a chance in the senior side not be forthcoming, it is about time the Reds unleashed the USA U20 international out on loan to see what he can do.
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