Damien Comolli spoke recently about how Liverpool wouldn’t be making any ‘big changes’ in the summer. There seems to have been a backlash against the extravagant spending of last summer and now the emphasis has been placed on sensible, effective purchases rather than bank-breaking gambles. Whilst it would be nice to see the Reds competing for the likes of Edinson Cavani and Eden Hazard perhaps the shrewdest thing Liverpool can do now is attempt to get the most out of their money. They simply can’t afford another Carroll-esque failure.
With this in mind I think it’s worthwhile taking a look at some of the free transfer options available to Liverpool in the summer. Yes these players tend to demand bigger wages, but the chance to avoid costly transfer fees is a massive draw.
First up there’s Wigan’s Hugo Rodallega who has been linked to Tottenham and Arsenal in recent times. He’s Wigan’s all-time top scorer, though that isn’t saying much and has been able to perform regularly even whilst those around him have crumbled. He’s versatile and can play as a striker or as a winger and could be to Liverpool next season what Craig Bellamy has been to Liverpool this season.
Another potential target is Inter Milan’s Cristian Chivu. Liverpool are a little short of defenders (once you get past Danny Agger and Martin Skrtel) as Jamie Carragher is getting on and Sebestian Coates is relatively untested. He’s 31-years-old, so he has been through the mill somewhat, but he has established himself as a capable, calm head with a great reading of the game.
Or how about a replacement down the wings for the woeful Jordan Henderson and Stewart Downing? Jefferson Farfan’s Schalke contract will be up in the summer and he could well be tempted into a move into the Premier League. He has made over 220 appearances in the Dutch League and scored 80 goals, so he comes with some pedigree. He may well be a bit of a gamble, but at least he’d come cheap.
Finally and perhaps most the most intriguing prospect is Blackburn’s Junior Hoilett. He has stood out in a pretty average Rovers side this season thanks to his speed, technical ability and prowess going forward. With his contract running down, there’s basically no chance that he’ll remain a Blackburn player next season. If Liverpool are to go after one freebie, he’s the man I’d most like to see them sign. They’re sure to face staunch competition however and may well have to offer him fairly high wages.
What’s your take? Who would you most like to see join Liverpool this summer?
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