Barcelona are weighing up a move for Liverpool full-back Alberto Moreno when the transfer window reopens in January. According to a report by Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, the Catalans are on the lookout for a new left-back who could play as a back-up to Jordi Alba and could make a move for the Reds defender during the winter transfer window.
Alberto Moreno: Liverpool’s Forgotten Fullback
The 26-year-old lost his first-team place to Andrew Robertson last season and is now playing second-fiddle to the Scottish international. He has struggled to get regular game time under Jurgen Klopp over the past year. But he showed glimpses of his worth during the Merseyside club’s pre-season campaign earlier this summer. The Spaniard could be handed more opportunities over the next few weeks with fixtures coming thick and fast for the Reds across all competitions.
Two Sides Of Moreno
Since his move from Sevilla, Moreno has featured in 136 matches for Liverpool, scoring three goals while grabbing 11 assists. His record at Anfield proves that he is a potent left-back going forward, but there are a lot of question marks over his defensive abilities. The Spanish defender has been guilty of making some high-profile defensive errors during his time at Merseyside. Most notably in the Europa League final back in 2016, when his mistake didn’t help Liverpool’s cause of lifting the European trophy.
Why Keeping Moreno As A Squad Player Could Be Wise?
Moreno has slowly fallen down the Anfield pecking order under Jurgen Klopp and now looks more of a squad option rather than a player looking to push for a first-team place. Despite all his defensive shortcomings, the Spaniard boasts excellent pace, which helps him make some darting runs down the left flank. The 26-year-old also has a wealth of experience of playing football at the highest level and could do a decent job when called upon. He can serve as a wonderful outlet down the left side and is an ideal backup to Robertson, which is why Klopp should look to retain him for now.
Should Liverpool Sell The Spanish Left-back?
However, if the right offer comes in from Barca, then Liverpool should look to offload him and bring in a suitable replacement who is capable of competing with Robertson for a place in Klopp’s starting XI.
Moreno has proven time and again that he cannot be trusted on the biggest stage as he always seems to have a defensive error in him. Hence, shipping him out could be the way to go for the Merseyside club as they look to mount a realistic title challenge in the top tier of England this season.
