Liverpool are not supposed to spend a lot next season after splashing the cash last year. But they must look to increase the squad strength amid an array of potential exits and the recent quotes from Robert Pires would divide the fanbase across the globe.
While speaking to Bwin, the Arsenal legend has suggested to Jurgen Klopp to consider a summer move for Memphis Depay, the former Manchester United flop who has rediscovered his form in Ligue 1 with Olympique Lyonnais. The Dutchman was pretty young when he completed a high-profile switch to Old Trafford but failed to justify the hype after scoring only twice in the league during his one-and-a-half year stint.
“He perhaps feels he wasn’t given a chance to perform and earn the right to stay longer considering he was so young and showed glimpses of undoubted potential. Depay might want to return to Manchester United or he might be motivated to prove them wrong by performing for one of their rivals in the Premier League.”
The winger is now rated at around £45m following his revival in French football. He has scored 30 league goals till date in 80 Ligue 1 appearances and has emerged as one of the most influential figures for Netherlands who seem to be a rejuvenated force under Ronald Koeman’s tutelage.
The prospect of joining Liverpool might sound bizarre, but the Reds have his compatriots Virgil van Dijk and Georginio Wijnaldum in their ranks who have been key in transforming them into potential title contenders. Depay, now 25, has evolved into a more matured and composed attacking ace. Therefore, the former Man United star would not be wrong to seek a return to the Premier League to reinstate his reputation.
Liverpool are set to lose Daniel Sturridge for free when his contract expires upon completion of the ongoing campaign. Divock Origi, who is being utilized down the left-hand flank at times, might opt for a move-out to attain regular minutes elsewhere.
The Reds have a stable front trio of Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah with Xherdan Shaqiri the alternative to the Egyptian on the right wing. The inclusion of Depay would hand them much-needed flexibility high up the pitch due to his ability to feature on the left, as a second striker, False 9 and even as a ‘number 10’ if required. Klopp, therefore, would have adequate quality to rotate his frontline to keep them fit and fresh to compete for multiple trophies.
