Xherdan Shaqiri’s representatives have held talks with Liverpool over a possible switch. Pf90 investigates his suitability.
According to outlets like Mirror and Bleacher Report, Xherdan Shaqiri and Liverpool are courting one another. With representatives meeting for discussions since a deal for Lyon forward Nabil Fekir deteriorated.
Let’s examine exactly how likely a transfer is, if Shaqiri is good enough and where he will fit in. Interestingly, Liverpool’s ‘media watch’ on their official website, actually carries the story. ESPN incredibly feature on www.liverpoolfc.com with the story entitled: ‘Liverpool leading the race for Shaqiri’.
Tweeted yesterday by B/R’s reliable Dean Jones is clarification of Friday’s meeting:
Liverpool held talks with Shaqiri representatives on Friday as they look into a possible deal
— Dean Jones (@DeanJonesSoccer) June 11, 2018
Other claims emerged within sports media of Tottenham Hotspur being linked to Stoke City’s playmaker. Guardian Sport explains his monitoring by another too; “Southampton don’t fancy another relegation scrape, and will sign rare Stoke City success story Xherdan Shaqiri for £12m … unless Spurs nip in first.”
Cost of the winger is low because of his contract’s relegation clause. The Potters’ recent premiership demise triggered that stipulation. Independent assess it will be difficult for him to find a continental club, due to his £100,000-a-week wage demands.
Liverpool’s interest in the 26-year-old derives from his explosively productive performances since arrival in the top-flight English league. Involving himself in 15 league goals last campaign. He also chipped in with three finishes in four World Cup outings in 2014.
How effective is Shaqiri? Well, for an illustrious illustration, check out the YouTube video below:
Unfortunately for the Switzerland international if he does join, Anfield has the world’s foremost talent in his preferred position. Mohamed Salah is a right-winger. Although the Egyptian plays narrower, and arguably more forward than permitted for Shaqiri at relegated Stoke. If he has a stunning World Cup, Salah is also tipped for the Ballon d’Or.
Fitting in on Merseyside
As to whether the Switzerland international would suit the Reds; yes, indeed he would. Klopp wants an experienced understudy. Reports by Mirror suggest Shaqiri as an alternative to Sadio Mane, as well as Salah. Unfortunately for the Stoke player, he would not begin as a starter at Anfield.
However, modern sides with much to play for can offer playing time to its periphery roster. Due to Champions League appearances, FA Cup and League Cup duties, players like Mane along with Salah will need rest or suffer injuries. Especially with fresh international obligation.
Furthermore, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain evidently has the central-attacking-midfielder role sewn-up. Yet another spot in which the former Potter could play is already taken. While those positions are locked-down, a Marko Arnautovic style move centrally is an additional option. Despite his lesser height, he does battle and mentally out manoeuvre centre-backs.
A stocky, determined, wildly talented dribbler. With excellent dead-ball or set-piece expertise. A keen eye for goal, which will naturally increase with more experienced, and honestly, superior players. In conclusion, Shaqiri can certainly do a job on Merseyside but may opt for regular first team football elsewhere.
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Would the diminutive Swiss-star suit Liverpool?