One of the most talked about players this summer seems to be Joao Mario of Sporting Lisbon, and the Liverpool fans in the Transfer Tavern are trying to find out about him as much as possible.

The Reds are the latest in a long line of clubs that are linked with the Portuguese midfielder who has emerged as a top player this year.

Jurgen Klopp is looking to bolster his side in order to improve on eighth place in the Premier League and two cup final losses.

The Reds know it’s a crucial time for them as they look to re-establish themselves among the likes of Arsenal, Man. City with Pep Guardiola and Man United with Jose Mourinho.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are looking to rebuild, Spurs are a threat and Leicester are looking to retain their crown.

Throw into the mix that Southampton and West Ham both finished above the Reds, the German is now surely aware of the size of the job he’s got on.

So is Joao Mario the answer Liverpool need? Well, our landlord has thought of these TWO pros and TWO cons that might shed some light on the situation……
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PRESS THE IMAGE BELOW TO SEE THE TWO PROS AND TWO CONS!

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Pro 1 – He can play out wide

Mario plays on the right side of the pitch and this already strengthens Liverpool who sorely lack width.

The only orthodox winger the club have with much experience is Jordon Ibe.

Philipe Coutinho and Adam Lallana have both been used out wide for the Reds this season but neither are what you’d call wingers.

If the Sporting Lisbon player does come in to the club he’s sure to add to the Anfield side’s attacking threat straight away.

Con 1 – Lack of aggression

One of the traits of Mario is that he doesn’t always get stuck in to physical battles and this has to be taken into consideration if he’s going to be in a Premier League midfield.

It’s a widely held belief that the football in this country is one of the most physical around, and with a manager like Jurgen Klopp expecting complete commitment, Joao Mario may have to work on this element of his game.

Pro 2 – Ball retention

Joao Mario is very good at keeping the ball and this would obviously be a big plus for Liverpool.

The Reds have a number of players who are good on the ball in the aforementioned Coutinho and Lallana, as well as Roberto Firmino and so Mario would fit in seamlessly with his ability.

The Sporting Lisbon player would give the Reds another outboard down the right knowing more often than not he’s going to keep possession.

Con 2 – Goals to games

Goal-scoring midfielders are a vital part of any team that wants to win trophies.

Klopp had it had Dortmund with Marco Reus and Mario Gotze and will want to see similar output from his midfielders at Liverpool.

Mario did not score many for Sporting last season and will need to improve on this if he wants to be a permanent fixture in the Reds side, should a deal come to pass.