Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka recently produced an impressive performance in the Europa League where he assisted the winner for Alexandre Laczette against Olympiacos. The versatile winger who is filling in at left-back has impressed for the Gunners.
McManaman suggests Liverpool should sign Saka
Former Liverpool star Steve McManaman believes that Saka would be a good signing for Liverpool if they can get him on a free contract. He wrote on his HorseRacing.net column via the Express, “He looks like a really good player, but he’s incredibly young. If there are contract issues and he ever becomes available on a free transfer, then that’s a no brainer because you’re taking someone on a free contract who’s young and has a lot of potential.”
“If he does join Liverpool then he’s got a long wait and Liverpool already have a couple of young left-backs waiting in the wings who we’ve seen in the FA Cup this year, who would probably be on a par with Bukayo Saka at this moment in time.”
Why should Klopp consider Saka?
Liverpool doesn’t have an outright back up to Andrew Robertson, who is arguably one of the best left-backs in the world. James Milner can fill in for him along with youngsters like Yasser Larouci and Adam Lewis. Larouci seems to be ahead in the pecking order as he played in the FA Cup ties where Liverpool rested most of their senior players.
McManaman believes that Saka would be on par with Liverpool youngster Larouci. But we feel that the Arsenal man will be a more proven option as he has made 25 appearances for the North London giants this season in all competitions. With various injuries at the left-back position, the Arsenal youngster has done well, and the 18-year-old has grabbed three goals and eight assists this campaign. He is quick, agile and has the composure to find the right pass.
What can go against Liverpool?
Saka is an attack-minded fullback, and he should fit into Liverpool’s plans well. He has his contract with Arsenal until 2021, so it remains to be seen whether Arsenal would give him an extension or not. Saka would be aware that at Liverpool, he might only play second fiddle to Robertson and hence, he might not choose to move to Anfield due to the lack of game time. That might go against the Reds in terms of luring the player.
In a Q and A by James Pearce in The Athletic, he had indicated that Liverpool would prioritise a move for a new left-back in the summer who would be a backup to Robertson. Based on current performances, Saka seems to be a decent bet and Liverpool should heed McManaman’s advice and get on his case in the summer. However, we think that Arsenal would be keen to hold on to Saka after his breakthrough campaign this season.
