Liverpool transfer target to play key role in Chilean rout
Published:Like a frenzied hornet, Chilean forward Eduardo Vargas will look to buzz around a suspect Australian defence and in doing so attract the attention of a number of high-profile suitors in his team’s Group B opener.
Liverpool are just one of a host of clubs thought to be monitoring the 24-year-old’s domestic situation, with former boss Kenny Dalglish keen on luring Vargas to Anfield back in 2011.
And current incumbent Brendan Rodgers could be inspired to follow-up his predecessor’s lead should Vargas catch the eye this summer.
Tonight’s match-up affords the Napoli frontman the perfect opportunity to make a positive impression and showcase his talents when Chile face the Socceroos in Rio.
La Roja are 4/9 to grab all three points with Australia, the lowest ranked nation competing at this year’s World Cup, the 8/1 outsiders and the draw priced at 16/5 with Ladbrokes.
Meanwhile, Vargas, Chile’s joint-top goalscorer in qualifying with five goals could have a key role to play in piling the pressure on Ange Postecoglou’s Aussie outfit.
The winger first came to prominence during Universidad de Chile’s Copa Sudamericana success three years ago, with Napoli subsequently shelling out €13 million for his services in January 2012.
Failure to settle in Serie A has resulted in subsequent loan moves to Gremio and Valencia with the Chile talisman helping the Spanish club reach the semi-finals of last season’s Europa League.
But with nine international goals in 12 matches in 2013 it’s clear that Vargas shines on the international stage.
And with Napoli allegedly open to offers for the free-flowing midfielder, Liverpool may decide to move quickly for a player who would fit in perfectly with the team’s attacking ethos.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
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