In a recent report, Corriere Dello Sport has stated that Aston Villa will face stiff competition in pursuit of Liverpool forward Divock Origi. It is understood that the Villans might have to battle it out with Inter Milan, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Newcastle United, Brighton and Hove Albion and Schalke 04 in pursuit of the Belgian international (via Corriere Dello Sport).
Origi’s Lack Of Game Time At Anfield This Season
The 25-year-old has been a sporadic feature for the Reds this season as he has struggled to get regular playing minutes under the tutelage of Jurgen Klopp. Origi has registered one goal and one assist in eight appearances for the Merseyside outfit this term across all competitions.
The Oostende-born talent has received most of his game time in Europe where he is averaging 0.3 shots, 0.3 key passes and 0.3 dribbles per game in the UEFA Champions League group stages. However, he has been tidy with his ball-distribution after completing 80% of his attempted passes in European football (stats via whoscored).
Origi needs to find a way to switch clubs in January either on loan or permanently so that he can get his playing career back on track. Hence, a move to Villa Park could appeal to him as he will have a good shot at securing a regular starting spot in Dean Smith’s first-team.
What Will The Belgian Striker Bring To The Table?
Origi has got a decent pace under his belt that helps him make some penetrative runs towards the opposition penalty area. He can use his strong 1.85m frame to hold the ball up and get others involved in the final third. Furthermore, he is versatile enough to play anywhere across the front line, making him a great squad player for any top-flight club in Europe. However, he lacks consistency with his performances in front of goal and is far from a prolific goal-getter in Premier League football.
Is Origi The Right Fit For The Villans?
Ollie Watkins has enjoyed a decent run of form for the West Midlands club, so there is no immediate need for Dean Smith to recruit a new forward. However, the Villans head coach can undeniably use someone of Origi’s quality to push Watkins and Keinan Davis for a place in his starting XI week in week out.
With all things considered, the 29-time Belgian international will be a good fit for Aston Villa as he will add more pace and goals to their attacking department. However, a loan move for Origi could be a safer bet for Smith to consider as it will give him the chance to see how he performs before deciding whether to keep him at the club for the long-run.
