He’s a nice target, but is Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain the best fit for Liverpool?
First, I should be up front by saying that I don’t buy into the Liverpool FC rumor mill when it comes to player transfers. They are so abundant, especially this time of the season.
That said, one rumor that has stood out as, if nothing else, interesting, involves Arsenal midfielder Alex Oxlade Chamberlain to Liverpool.
Several U.K. newspapers have linked the England international to a move to Anfield. But, remember, it’s U.K. newspapers … the same newspapers that are wrong about transfers about 75 percent of the time.
Arsenal’s Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Red Bull Leipzig’s Naby Keita are much admired by Liverpool. (Chris Bascombe)
— DaveOCKOP (@DaveOCKOP) May 22, 2017
This rumor, however, intrigues me.
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There is little question that Liverpool could use some depth at midfield, especially with Champions League play looming next season.
The issue of Philippe Coutinho is somewhat solved (or not, according to this story). Other midfielders like Adam Lallana, Jordan Henderson, Emre Can and Gini Wijnaldum lack the season-long consistency.
With Oxlade-Chamberlain there is a midfielder with a lot of potential. Since 2011, he has 20 goals in 110 games for the Gunners leading up to the FA Cup final against Chelsea.
Oxlade-Chamberlain on the two questions that have dogged his career to date & learning from Dani Alves: https://t.co/aWD2mi9aU4
— James Olley (@JamesOlley) May 26, 2017
Yes, he’s had injuries, but being versatile enough to play both the right and the in the middle could be a dynamic Jurgen Klopp would be willing to look at.
The big question is how much? Transfermarkt.com has his value presently at €20 million. Of course, Arsenal will want more.
Another option?
RB Leipzig center-midfielder Naby Keita is another potential target for Klopp. With a valuation of €22 million, he is likely to command more than Oxlade-Chamberlain. On paper, Keita is the better player with eight goals on 31 appearances. On top of that, Keita’s agency also represents Sadio Mane.
So, which is best? My gut says Keita is the better get. I see him gelling better with the rest of the team. I just see it being easier for Keita as he may find working with Klopp an easier transition.
Next: Just what do Liverpool need to do this summer?
Oxlade-Chamberlain’s injuries are another concern. The Reds know what it’s like to be hampered by injury. During Champions League play, Liverpool needs dependability consistency. I think Keita provides that more than Ox. That said, either would be a solid addition for the Reds.