Roberto Firmino has firmly established himself as Liverpool’s first-choice striker under Jurgen Klopp at the expense of Dominic Solanke, Daniel Sturridge and Divock Origi, but without a quality backup option the club will continue to play a subordinate role to Manchester City in the Premier League.
Sturridge has consistently proven to be unreliable, Origi simply isn’t up to the standard required and Solanke’s distinct lack of involvement remains something of a mystery.
But what is apparent is that Klopp is lacking the presence of a striker who he trusts to lead the line in Firmino’s absence, and that is a problem which needs addressing.
With that being said, Klopp should be scouting the market for a new attacker who offers a genuine alternative to the deep-lying Brazilian, and one exceptional player who could provide just that is West Ham’s Marko Arnautovic (valued at £22.5 million by Transfermarkt).
The Austria international has transformed from a decent Premier League attacker at Stoke City to one of the most effective centre-forwards in the division at West Ham.
Providing a potent blend of power, precision, pace and intricacy in the final-third Arnautovic has showcased a level of quality which vindicates the view that he is capable of making the step up to a top-four club.
Not only does Arnautovic have the talent to slot into Klopp’s side, he possesses a set of qualities and a playing style which differ from that of Firmino, and that would give Liverpool a significant boost in their bid to tip the balance of power in the Premier League.
Arnautovic’s ability to slot into either a number ten role or an inside-forward role on the left-wing is also worth bearing in mind for Liverpool’s recruitment team, as they are currently lacking the presence of a natural alternative to Sadio Mane.
Whether Arnautovic can be persuaded to move to Anfield remains to be seen, but if Liverpool are able to conclude a deal there is no doubt that Klopp would be able to mould a fresh dynamic in attack.
Liverpool fans – thoughts? Let us know below!
