Phil Thompson has revealed that Liverpool need to take timing in splashing the cash from Philippe Coutinho’s sale but his choice would be to sign Borussia Dortmund goal machine Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
In a column for Sky Sports, the pundit urged the Reds not to rush any decision regarding a replacement for Coutinho but couldn’t help stating what he would do with the cash.
“Maybe it should be used for an out-and-out striker and then Roberto Firmino can drop back and play the Coutinho role,” said Thompson.
“Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is one who would be on my list and somebody you could get.”
Aubameyang, who has scored 21 goals in 23 matches for Dortmund this season, could leave the club and join Chinese club Guangzhou Evergrande, according to a report on Saturday by Sina Sports.
Thompson was then less specific with how he would spend the rest of the money as he simply revealed the positions that needed strengthening.
“I’ve said all along the defence is the important area which needs addressing,” declared the pundit.
“I don’t think Van Dijk will solve it on his own so another centre-back, who is a real leader, and a top-class goalkeeper are required, but I don’t think they will happen in January as it has to be the right players.”
A Telegraph report revealed on Sunday that Liverpool were set to make the £142million fee received from Coutinho’s sale available for Jurgen Klopp to use as his discretion.
OPINION
Liverpool have the cash to splash but Thompson’s first instinct for the Reds to take their time is the right option. Liverpool are a few signings away by being a genuine title contender after years of not being in the race. However, there’s no need to rush in order to get these signings across the line. Manchester City have practically won the league already and the Reds’ main aim is to finish in the top four this season. Even without Coutinho or any more January signings, Liverpool’s current squad can achieve that goal. This allows Klopp time to filter out targets and heavily scout all his options before making big decisions in the summer, which could see Liverpool end next season as league champions.