Jurgen Klopp striker plans emerge after Roberto Firmino rocks Liverpool with exit decision
Jurgen Klopp’s plans for the centre-forward position have been revealed by a report following Roberto Firmino’s decision to leave Liverpool this summer.
Firmino’s Liverpool contract is due to expire at the end of the season. The Reds had been hoping to extend it by two years, plus the option of a third. And on February 17, Italian source FC Inter News claimed Firmino would reject Inter Milan’s advances as he was ‘destined’ to extend his spell at Anfield.
However, on Friday Sky Sport Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg revealed how the striker had told Klopp he wants to leave.
That information has since been confirmed by other sources such as BBC Sport, The Guardian and ESPN. Firmino will join another club on a free transfer once his Liverpool contract runs out.
The Brazilian’s influence on Liverpool may have waned in recent seasons, but he is still loved by the Reds faithful. He formed a devastating forward trio with Mo Salah and Sadio Mane, helping Klopp’s side win illustrious trophies such as the Premier League and Champions League.
And when Firmino has played in the last two campaigns, he has showed that he can still score goals and make Liverpool tick.
While the attacker leaving Liverpool is sad for everyone involved with the club, former defender Jamie Carragher thinks it is the right time for him to move on. He tweeted: “If the reports about Firmino leaving at the end of the season are true, I do think it’s best for all parties.
“He’s a Liverpool great and will be remembered for being part of one of the best front threes we’ve seen.”
Jurgen Klopp to prioritise other positions
Inter and Juventus have both been linked with Firmino. And while the 31-year-old could move to Italy, Klopp must decide whether to replace him or continue with his existing options.
As per the Liverpool Echo, signing a new striker will not be a priority for Klopp and Liverpool this summer. They believe there is enough strength in forward areas already, with Diogo Jota, Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo all able to play through the middle.
Instead, Firmino’s wages will be used to aid the midfield overhaul. That is the main position Liverpool hope to improve in the summer. Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain look set to depart, while top stars such Jude Bellingham, Mason Mount and Manuel Locatelli could join.
The report does not mention any potential defensive additions. But it would not be a surprise if Liverpool brought in a new centre-back. There are concerns over the form of Joel Matip and Joe Gomez, with West Ham’s Nayef Aguerd a potential target.
Liverpool fans may be disappointed that the club is not going to spend big money on a new striker later this year. However, Klopp should have enough firepower to get Liverpool challenging next season. Nunez could improve his goalscoring record with a full season in England under his belt. Gakpo joined in January and will also be more comfortable at Liverpool by the start of next season.
