With the transfer window in full swing, there have the usual rumours fluttering about. Some are figments of imaginations while some of them are actual news filtering out of the clubs. But what will be discussing today is a mixture of both. It is a known fact that Daniel Sturridge has failed to settle into the former Borussia Dortmund manager’s gegenpressing style of football he has tried to imbibe at Anfield. And has subsequently fallen down the pecking order.
Even with their attacking resources stretched, he hasn’t been a regular fixture in the starting eleven as we have seen in the absence of Coutinho and then Mane, Klopp has preferred Origi or Lallana in an advanced role.
Hence, a move away from the club is highly likely for the flashy England striker. While it might not be sanctioned this month, with Liverpool hard pressed for depth in reserves, a summer move in almost certain. But while the sale might be in summer, it will not be a surprise to see a new face incoming in January itself.
Let us take a look at 3 potential long-term replacements for Daniel Sturridge.
DOMENICO BERARDI (22)
The 22-year-old has caught the eye of Jurgen Klopp as he looks to strengthen his attack. Juventus also have the option to sign Berardi for £22 million but the Serie A champions have not indicated that they will take up that opportunity. He has scored 40 goals in 92 Serie A appearances for Sassuolo.
He is an exceptional finisher despite being a winger and is also adept at taking set-pieces. He provides a steady stream of key passes throughout the season and his ability to link-up well with his teammates will fit into the culture at Liverpool.
JAY RODRIGUEZ (27)
A name which hasn’t been linked with Liverpool for almost a year. Maybe for his injury troubles but being a Southampton player, and a striker who can play across the attacking third, it is almost sinful that he hasn’t been. Rodriguez burst onto the scene in the 2012-13 season and caught everyone’s attention but it was the next year in which he showed that he belonged amongst the best.
Scoring 15 goals and assisting a further 3, he was inevitably linked with a move to one of the big guns in the League. But a horror injury saw his career screech to a halt and after 2 years, he is back in business once again. He can fit into the Liverpool ethos even now and is someone Klopp can take a punt on.
RAUL JIMENEZ (25)
Liverpool have also been linked with Benfica attacker Raul Jimenez. Jiménez hasn’t been played in different positions but his ability on the ball is what’s attracting Liverpool.
After a subdued spell with Atletico Madrid a few seasons ago, he’s starting to show why Benfica took the punt on him and even though he’s managed just 10 games in the league, it is clear that he can be nurtured in something far more lethal.
