In a recent report, La Stampa (subscription required) revealed that Liverpool have identified Sassuolo goal-scorer Domenico Berardi as a target this summer. However, it is understood that the Reds could face competition from Leicester City and AC Milan in pursuit of the Italy international during this summer transfer window (translated by Sassuolo News).
Berardi’s Outstanding Form At The Mapei Stadium
Berardi had a sensational season with Sassuolo recently because he produced several match-winning displays for them down the right-wing. The Italian sensation found the back of the net on 17 occasions and provided eight assists in 30 appearances for his current club in the previous campaign across all competitions.
The Cariati-born talent gave a good account of himself in the final third after he averaged 1.4 tackles, 0.9 interceptions, 1.0 clearances, 3.8 shots, 1.9 key passes and 1.0 dribbles per game in Serie A last season. He kept things tidy when distributing the ball in the opponent’s half, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 80.5% in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Berardi is still under contract at the Mapei Stadium until the summer of 2024. Hence, Liverpool would have to make a big-money offer if they want to secure the signature of the talented winger before the start of the new season.
Should The Reds Move In For Berardi This Summer?
Berardi has decent pace under his belt and is proficient at making some quick sprints down the right flank. He has a good work ethic and can get to the byline to whip in a few inviting crosses into the opposition penalty area. The Italian wing wizard has scored plenty of important goals for both his club and country over the past 12 months. Furthermore, he can even chip in by picking up his fair share of assists up top and is not afraid to work hard for his side defensively when the opposition are on the offensive.
A winger of Berardi’s skillset will be an excellent addition to the Reds squad this summer. He is already good enough to rival Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Diogo Jota for a place in Jurgen Klopp’s frontline next season. We can expect him to add plenty of goals and creativity to Liverpool’s attacking department.
Plus, Berardi would be a significant upgrade over Divock Origi and Takumi Minamino at Anfield. Still, there are some concerns over whether he can cope with the physical nature of English football. Even then, the pros outweigh the cons of recruiting him, so the Merseyside outfit should think about moving in for the Sassuolo star in this off-season.
