According to Aksam, as cited by Sport Witness, Trabzonspor are open to selling Ugurcan Cakir if Liverpool make the right offer for the goalkeeper. The Reds are waiting for the departure of Simon Mignolet, which would allow them to make a move for the Turkish star. Trabzonspor have already signed Erce Kardesler as a potential replacement for Cakir, and it seems the move is likely to take place this summer. Trabzonspor are apparently expecting a bid from the Reds for the goalkeeper.
Cakir’s rise to prominence
Cakir was initially a second choice goalkeeper for Trabzonspor prior to the start of last season. But, the incident surrounding Onur Kivrak after he verbally abused the fans and was later banned indefinitely from the club, allowed the young goalkeeper to make his breakthrough in the Turkish Super Lig.
The 23-year-old ended up making 20 appearances for the club, during which he conceded only 23 goals. He kept five clean sheets, helping Trabzonspor achieve a top-four finish in the league. Cakir’s consistent performances also helped him earn his first call up to the Turkish national team back in May.
What can he bring to the table?
Cakir is a modern-day goalkeeper, who is comfortable with the ball at his feet. He can efficiently distribute possession from the back and is capable of delivering long balls as well. The ex-Yamanspor youth player also boasts a massive 1.91m frame that allows him to cover a large area in goal. Additionally, it gives him a considerable advantage when it comes to asserting his dominance in set-pieces.
Cakir averaged 3.5 saves per game last season – more than any other goalkeeper in the league (among those who have at least played 20 matches). 1.4 of those saves have come from outside the box, which is jointly second highest in the league. Hence, he is an excellent shot-stopper as well.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
Should Liverpool make a move for Cakir?
Cakir seems like a noticeable upgrade over Mignolet. The Belgian has struggled to perform throughout the entirety of his spell at Liverpool. He has also played very little football over the past 12 months, and a move away from Anfield makes sense as he aims to revive his career.
The Turkish international will be a cost-effective option in Jurgen Klopp’s bid to find a backup for Alisson. Cakir will likely receive opportunities in the domestic cup competitions, which will serve him with the ideal platform to showcase his quality at the highest level of football. And with time on his side, it will be interesting to see how the youngster develops within the coming years.
