Brendan Rodgers surprised just about everybody last week with a move for Atletico Madrid forward Diego Costa. It was a move that seemed to come out of nowhere and more importantly re-iterated Liverpool’s strength in this summer’s transfer market.
After a series of smart, affordable signings, fans would have been forgiven for thinking that no big money moves would be forthcoming this summer (especially after Liverpool passed on Henrikh Mkhitaryan). Fortunately, a £21.8m move proved that the Reds still have money to spend in the summer transfer window.
Still, confusion reigns over whether Liverpool will be able to force a deal for the highly rated Brazilian. It’s thought that the Reds bid was designed to trigger the players’ release clause.
Unfortunately, that counts for very little of the player himself doesn’t fancy a move. The player recently told the Press:
“If the club want me to be here, I’m going to be here.” Who says loyalty in football is dead?
The truth is, Liverpool don’t provide as much of a draw as they used to. Atletico were in fine form last season, finishing third and earning Champions League football (something the Reds can’t offer). They’ve also won three trophies in the space of a year. That’s pretty impressive stuff.
Whilst the Reds can offer bags worth of history, passion and brilliant fans, the player himself may feel his chances of silverware are better in Madrid. Yes, Radamel Falcao has moved on, but this will merely provide Diego Costa with more prominence in the squad.
It’s easy to see why Liverpool are interested. Diego scored 20 goals in 44 appearances last season and at 24-years-old, is only going to get better.
Atletico’s sporting director Jose Luis Caminero is keen to keep hold of the Brazilian: “Diego Costa is a very important player for Atletico; we value him very highly and we are convinced that this year he is going to score a lot of goals with Atletico. He is an idol for the fans.” (Source: The Mirror)
As such, the odds seem to be stacked against Liverpool making this signing. But that’s no excuse not to push on and make it happen. If it’s come down to offering the player the right wage-package, or suitable bonuses for good performances, then I hope Brendan wont let this deal pass him by.
After all, this could be the best signing the Reds have made in some time.
What’s your take? Should Liverpool continue chasing Diego Costa?
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99% of Liverpool fans have not seen this guy play nor any of the other transfers Players we allegedly went for….You tube is not enough to go on.
Liverpool fans need to stop and smell the roses.
Just cause some website owner writes an article … this guy is the greatest EVER EVER player, don’t be taken in…..
I do agree we need one or two world class players to come in this year, but by in large you tend to know the names of World Class players before some one decides to write silly articles about them.