Rebel West Brom striker would fit Liverpool like a glove
Published:
Almost a fortnight into the January transfer window and it has become clear all is not well at Anfield, giving rise to a raft of rumours linking Liverpool to potential new recruits.
Jurgen Klopp’s early buoyancy after succeeding Brendan Rodgers as Reds boss in October has been replaced by furrowed brows of late, thanks to the realisation of a relentless winter schedule and its toll on a squad whose limitations have also come home to roost for the German.
Not such a corker
Stricken by the club’s worst injury crisis in recent memory, where fit centre-halves and intact hamstrings are at a particular premium, nomadic QPR defender Steven Caulker is thought to have been contacted over an emergency loan.
No matter how desperate the times, this is a move sure to generate alarm among Kopites.
However, in the same breath that Caulker’s name has unexpectedly surfaced, another whisper in the wind should have the complete opposite effect on the Reds rank and file.
Berahino linked to Liverpool in January
The Daily Express imply that Klopp’s exasperations with his crop of strikers has seen the German earmark West Brom’s wantaway centre-forward, Saido Berahino, as a possible January signing.
Daniel Sturridge’s inability to get match fit, let alone sustain fitness without picking up more injuries, has led Klopp to sound out a replacement, according to the paper.
It is well known that Berahino has his heart set on a transfer to Tottenham during the mid-season window, though Liverpool are believed to be hovering in the event negotiations between the Baggies and the Lilywhites go south once more.
If Sturridge is to be replaced at Anfield there are few strikers better suited than the England U21 star.
Baggie has the right profile
Berahino shares a very similar profile; he is a natural finisher, he is very quick and has the ability to operate in any of the front three positions Klopp regular deploys.
At just 22, his mobility and energy make him an ideal exponent of the high-pressing game Liverpool have generally utilised under Klopp so far.
The rebellious Baggie also notched 14 Premier League goals (20 overall) when leading the line regularly at the Hawthorns last season and Liverpool’s limpness in attack is plain to see.
Between Christian Benteke, Divock Origi, Daniel Sturridge, Danny Ings (injured long term), and Roberto Firmino, the Reds striker roster has only rippled 12 Premier League nets – while Liverpool are the only side in the top 11 spots to own a negative goal difference.
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