In a recent report, Sabah has revealed that Liverpool are preparing to launch a €17m move for Trabzonspor keeper Uğurcan Çakır. However, it is understood that the Reds could face competition in the form of Red Bull Leipzig and Sevilla in pursuit of the Turkish custodian (via Sabah).
Cakir’s Impressive Season In Turkish Football
Cakir is having another solid season in Turkey after putting in a series of dominant displays as Abdullah Avcı’s primary goalkeeper. The 24-year-old has participated in 29 matches for the Turkish outfit this term, letting in 30 goals and securing ten clean sheets across all fronts.
The Antalya-born talent has caught the eye by averaging 0.7 clearances and 8.0 long balls per game in the Turkish Super Lig. However, he has been sloppy when distributing possession out from the back as he has completed just 58.7% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Cakir is maturing into a top keeper at Şenol Güneş Stadium, so it is no wonder that some of the top European clubs including Liverpool are hoping to acquire his services this summer.
What Does The Turkish Keeper Offer On The Pitch?
Cakir possesses quick reflexes that help him make some outstanding saves at the back. He can position himself well and can pull off a few quick dives to come to his team’s rescue. However, the six-time Turkey international needs to work on being more solid when coming out to collect crosses and loose balls inside his penalty box. He also has to find a way to be more accurate with his passing if he wants to become a regular feature at the highest level.
Is Cakir The Right Fit For Liverpool?
Cakir is good enough to serve as a decent back-up to Alisson Becker, who remains Jurgen Klopp’s undisputed number one choice for the goalkeeping position at Anfield. The Turkish keeper has what it takes to grow into a top player in his position under the expert guidance of a world-class man-manager like Klopp.
At 24, the Trabzonspor star is a player on the rise and will only get better in the coming seasons. Plus, Cakir will be an upgrade over Adrian, who has made some high-profile mistakes during his Liverpool career so far.
With all things considered, the Super Lig custodian will be a good fit for the Merseyside giants but recruiting him could hamper the growth of Caoimhin Kelleher. So the Reds should arrange a loan move for the Irish keeper before bringing in someone like Cakir in this offseason.
