Zambian news outlet Far Post has recently stated that Liverpool are in pole position to land Red Bull Salzburg striker Patson Daka this summer. However, the Reds could face stiff competition from Arsenal and Manchester United in pursuit of the Zambian forward. French clubs Marseille, LOSC Lille and Olympique Lyonnais, along with Red Bull Leipzig, are also interested in acquiring the services of the talented marksman in this off-season (via Far Post).
Daka’s Incredible Run Of Form At Salzburg Last Season
It was a highly productive campaign for the Salzburg attacker in the last term as he produced a string of eye-catching performances as the centre-piece of Jesse Marsch’s attack. The Chingola-born starlet banged in 27 goals and provided 12 assists in 45 appearances for the Austrian giants across multiple competitions.
Daka managed to discover some consistency with his all-around contributions in European football after averaging 2.0 shots, 0.9 key passes and 0.5 dribbles per 90 minutes in the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League last season. However, his ball-distribution can improve based on his pass completion rate of 70% in both those competitions (stats via whoscored).
The 21-year-old scored a brace versus the Reds in a pre-season friendly match last month, so Jurgen Klopp has already gotten an up-close look at what the Zambian centre-forward is capable of in front of the opposition goal. Daka is currently on the verge of becoming a recognised name in European football. Still, there are some concerns over whether he would be able to make a seamless transition to English football which is known for its physicality and high intensity.
What Does The 18-Time Zambian International Offer On The Pitch?
Blessed with blistering pace and agility, Daka can work hard at stretching the pitch by running the channels in the attacking third. He is full of energy and running, which makes him a constant menace for the opposition. The Salzburg frontman has gradually transformed himself into a prolific goal-getter and can even engineer some decent chances to score for his teammates inside the opponent’s penalty box.
Should The Reds Bring Daka On Board This Summer?
Daka is primarily a centre-forward, but can also operate as a winger on the right flank if required. His pace, goal-threat and versatility will be useful for Liverpool in their quest to retain the Premier League title in the upcoming campaign. The Zambian prospect could serve as a decent back-up for Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah at Anfield next season. Plus, he will offer more competition for the likes of Takumi Minamino, Divock Origi and Rhian Brewster in the race to secure a first-team place in the domestic cup competitions next season.
If Daka is willing to settle for a reserved role at Merseyside, then Klopp should undoubtedly think about getting the Austrian Bundesliga star on board before the transfer window comes to a halt in October.
