In a recent report from Mirror, it was mentioned that Liverpool are looking to renew Roberto Firmino’s contract at Anfield to extend his services in the attacking department. The Brazilian forward had been linked to an exit from Merseyside after Darwin Nunez’s arrival but his brilliant performances in the first half of this campaign have convinced Jurgen Klopp to extend his stay beyond his contract.
Firmino’s Recent Form In Liverpool
Firmino has had a brilliant start to this campaign at the Merseyside club producing several influential displays in the attacking front. The veteran striker has been involved in 19 matches for Liverpool so far, finding the back of the net on nine occasions and earning four assists across multiple competitions.
The Brazilian attacker was quite often a substitute in Jurgen Klopp’s squad last season but has come out stronger this season after averaging 2.5 shots, 1.3 key passes and 1.0 tackles per game in the Premier League. He has also been tidy when linking up play with others around him after making 79.6% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Good Call From Jurgen Klopp To Renew His Contract?
Firmino excels at creating some decent chances for others around him and he does well to hold the ball in the attacking third. He can be a good finisher in the final third when he is playing confidently on the field. Furthermore, the Brazilian sensation remains adept at dribbling the ball and getting past the defenders in front of the goal.
The arrival of Darwin Nunez from Benfica could have meant his first-team chances at Anfield might have been reduced but that isn’t the case as Jurgen Klopp has found a way to accommodate both in the final third. Firmino remains versatile enough to play as a second striker or as an advanced attacking midfielder which makes him a decent fit for the squad as he can drop back into the midfield creating space down the middle. This allows the other attackers to cut inside and create opportunities in front of the goal.
With just a year remaining in his Liverpool contract, Firmino could benefit from a change of scenery but a contract extension might secure his stay at Anfield and that would be a viable option for him. Even at 31, Firmino remains a world-class forward and the Reds would definitely benefit from the competition and quality he brings to the attacking department.
