According to Mucho Deporte, as cited by FourFourTwo, Liverpool could use Divock Origi as a makeweight in a deal to sign Junior Firpo. The Real Betis defender reportedly has a release clause of £45 million, but the Spanish outfit are willing to negotiate for offers around £27 million. However, the Reds could face stiff competition from Barcelona, who are keen to sign an understudy for Jordi Alba.
Firpo’s breakout season at Real Betis last term
A product of the Real Betis youth academy, Firpo was promoted to the senior side at the start of last year. And the Spanish left-back of Dominican descent didn’t take long in getting used to the rigours of professional football, making 14 league appearances in what was his professional debut campaign.
Firpo’s progress was marred by a hamstring and later, a muscle injury in the recently concluded 2018/19 campaign. But, the 22-year-old still managed to make 24 league appearances, during which he scored three goals and provided four assists. His services on the flanks helped Los Beticos attain a mid-table finish in the league.
What can Firpo bring to the table?
Firpo is labelled as an attack-minded fullback, who is blessed with excellent close control. It is his remarkable control over the ball that allows him to even feature as a left-sided midfielder at times. Aside from that, the Spanish defender is proficient in providing width into the attack, but he can also make darting into the heart of the opposition backline.
The Real Betis star is equally good on the defensive aspect of the game as he is capable of making strong tackles and win the ball back for his team – making him a well-rounded fullback.
Should Liverpool make a move for Firpo?
Firpo wouldn’t be a bad signing for Liverpool given their lack of depth in the left-back department, especially following the release of Alberto Moreno. That means Andrew Robertson remains the only reliable option in the said position, which could be a problem for Jurgen Klopp in such a long and strenuous schedule of English football.
Firpo, therefore, will offer the German mastermind with additional depth. But, most importantly, it is his immense potential that could make the 22-year-old a huge asset for the club in the near future, provided he is nurtured well.
In fact, the Real Betis defender is a better all-round left-back when compared to Robertson, meaning he could turn out to be a better option than the Scot if he can play to his full potential. However, offering Divock Origi in exchange could be a risky move for Klopp considering Liverpool’s lack of depth in the attacking department. Hence, it will be interesting to see how this transfer saga takes shape in the coming weeks.
