Liverpool are closing on a sensational big-money transfer for Napoli’s hitman Gonzalo Higuain, according to reports from Bein Sports.
The rumours have got stronger in last 24 hours after Reds manager Jurgen Klopp was spotted at Argentina’s Copa America match against Chile earlier today.
Klopp is eyeing a move for a top class striker who could deliver 20+ goals with a degree of consistency and there aren’t many better than Higuain at the moment. The Argentine hitman netted 36 league goals last season and is in the best form of his life.
It is not a surprise to see that likes of Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United are also linked with a move for Higuain, who has constantly expressed his desire to quit Napoli with Premier League being his preferred destination.
Higuain’s signing would make a whole lot of sense for Liverpool after Christian Benteke and Daniel Sturridge are uncertain of their roles at the club next season. With Higuain in the mix and support from Divock Origi and Danny Ings, Reds can launch a serious title push next season.
Money should not be the problem
If Liverpool are to press for Higuain’s signature, money will not be a matter of concern as the new TV rights money will give them a cash injection with Benteke and Sturridge to raise considerable money from their sales as well.
Taking his goals and recent form in to consideration, Liverpool may well have to splash £60million upfront to even think of signing the Argentine ace. Benteke and Sturridge combined would muster up to £50million in total, thus Reds can easily afford Higuain’s signature.
The other stumbling blocks
Having said that, why a player like Higuain who is at the peak of his powers would want to join Liverpool right now? Klopp may be the only high point at Anfield at the moment while lack of Champions League and other teams outshining them will stop Higuain from coming to Liverpool.
Chances of Higuain joining Liverpool – 1.5/5
Despite Klopp’s presence, there are no guarantees of Champions League football in coming seasons which is a huge pull for any top class player. It seems a no-brainer to me to even dwell on the prospects of Liverpool signing Gonzalo Higuain this summer, much like Mari Gotze who ended up snubbing Klopp and Liverpool.
Klopp may have been present during Argentina’s game tonight but it was either to just enjoy the game or to scout some other player. Higuain would either move back to La Liga with Atletico Madrid being the potential suitors or he will end up at one of the cash-rich Premier League clubs.