According to L’Equipe, as cited by Mirror, Liverpool are interested in securing the services of Lyon attacker Moussa Dembele and have contacted the player. The Frenchman has emerged as a target for many top clubs across Europe, thanks to a productive debut campaign at Lyon.
It is believed that Manchester United are the front-runners in the pursuit of Dembele, with Arsenal also interested. But, Liverpool will be able to offer Champions League football next season, unlike their rivals. Is he a viable option for the Reds though?
Moussa Dembele’s excellent season at Lyon
Dembele has become one of the hottest prospects in the market this summer following an incredible season with Lyon during the 2018/19 campaign. The former Celtic talisman scored a whopping 23 goals in 52 matches, 15 of which have come in Ligue 1.
He also registered five assists – making him one of the most productive players in the French top flight this past season. Hence, it’s rather evident that Dembele’s services in the final third has been critical to Lyon’s excellent campaign that saw them finish third in the league standings.
What can Dembele bring to the table?
A product of the PSG youth academy, Dembele is a feisty attacker, who is blessed with immense technique and composure on the ball. This is coupled with the physical prowess that allows him not only to keep hold of the ball under pressure but also act as the ball carrier.
Another key feature of Dembele’s game is his raw pace. The 22-year-old can switch gears at any point of the game, and his tendency to run in behind defences means he often becomes a scourge for defenders, especially when the opposition is probing them. The pace also helps him provide some genuine threat on the counter.
And finally, it is his aerial prowess that makes Dembele a complete package in the final third. Although the Frenchman has a relatively moderate figure of 1.83m, he has won 1.5 headed duels per game this past season.
Should Liverpool make a move for Dembele?
Dembele could serve as an ideal alternative to Roberto Firmino in the attack. However, that means the Frenchman will have to be content with being a benchwarmer at Anfield unless he manages to outshine the talented Brazilian international. In addition, he will have to compete with Divock Origi. The Belgian has recently signed a contract extension following his Champions League heroics and will provide competition to Dembele for a place in the starting lineup.
Hence, a move to Manchester United seems like the more logical choice for the player. But, for Liverpool, Dembele, at the age of 22, could be a smart long-term investment.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
