According to a report from Dailymail, it was stated that Liverpool midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is being targeted by Brighton & Hove Albion and they want to acquire his signature before the transfer window comes to a close. However, the Seagulls have requested that the Reds to let him exit for free since his contract expires at the end of this seaso so the deal would only take place if the Merseyside club agree on sanctioning his exit for a free transfer.
Oxlade-Chamberlain’s Struggling Campaign With Liverpool This Season
The English midfielder has struggled for regular opportunities at Anfield after falling down the pecking order in the match-day squad. He has only made seven appearances for Liverpool where he has managed to find the back of the net on one occasion.
The Portsmouth-born talent has mostly spent his time warming the bench which explains why he is only averaging 0.9 shots, 0.7 key passes and 0.6 dribbles per game in the Premier League. He also has to find a way to improve his ball distribution after only completing 76.4% of his attempted passes in the English top flight. (stats via whoscored).
Should Klopp Sanction His Exit?
Oxlade-chamberlain is primarily a central midfielder but can also fill in as a left-winger if required. He is an adept finisher in front of the opponent’s goal if he plays with confidence on the pitch.
The English midfielder can even contribute by scoring and creating opportunities for the team if he maintains discipline and conintues to improve his form. However, he has to figure out a way to make a bit more impact on the game going forward if he wants to taste success at the age of 29.
We can expect Chamberlain to inject more quality to the midfield department if he plays regularly and is given enough opportunities in the match day squad. Although with enough competition in the middle of the park at Anfield it is better if he makes an exit to obtain enough game time elsewhere. Hence, Jurgen Klopp should sanction his exit even if he goes for free as they would not be able to recoup a significant amount considering his market value.
