OPINION
Liverpool’s pursuit of Stoke City midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri has been a hot topic recently after boss Jurgen Klopp was seemingly given the green light to ramp up his interest in the Swiss international.
Stoke City manager Gary Rowett was quoted by TeamTalk as saying: “If players want to leave I will try and find the best solution to make that happen if that is the case.”
Liverpool need to make the most of this situation and make the move for the Swiss playmaker while they can, especially if other Premier League clubs are sniffing about.
At a reported £12 million, pocket rocket Shaqiri – who stands at 5’6 (source: Transfermarkt) – is available at a cut price fee, which is a stunningly good deal for a player of his calibre.
The 26-year-old is a magician on the ball, which he has demonstrated for both club and country.
The Reds were hoping to wrap up the deal of Nabil Fekir from Ligue 1 side Lyon but this fell through after Lyon called off talks regarding the signing, according to the Guardian.
Now Klopp has even more reason to snap up the Stoke City man, who possesses the same creative qualities as Fekir, but at a much cheaper price.
He has demonstrated his goal-scoring ability for the Potters, almost leading them to Premier League survival, as well as netting stunning goals for Switzerland.
His left foot is lethal, and his ability to score from his position will undoubtedly take the pressure off Liverpool star man Mo Salah, who was the Premier League’s top scorer last season.
His cover would be invaluable to Liverpool’s fearsome trio that includes Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane, adding that extra touch of experience that would prove pivotal in Liverpool’s title challenge.
Shaqiri is there for Liverpool’s taking, and the attacker would be more than happy to join a side who can compete in both the league and domestically in the Champions League.