Liverpool has been linked with a move for an exciting forward to replace Roberto Firmino, but it appears José Mourinho has won the race for him
Roberto Firmino was once a vital member of Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool squad. However, over the last few seasons, he has gradually been phased out of the team, becoming merely a valuable squad player.
Still in his early thirties, the Brazilian is rightfully moving on after an unforgettable career at Anfield, and where he goes next will be fascinating to watch.
What will be even more interesting is whether or not Liverpool replaces him in the squad this summer.
Given Cody Gakpo’s emergence, there isn’t necessarily a need for another offensive option. At least not in the starting XI.
However, Liverpool has recently lost a slew of attacking options. Both Divock Origi and Takumi Minamino left last summer, and Firmino’s departure will limit Klopp’s options even further in terms of the type of ammunition he can provide from the bench.
Ideally, Liverpool should sign a young attacker who can fill a backup squad role while also having the potential to break into the starting XI. One player who is Firmino’s countryman could have been ideal for the role.
Marcos Leonardo has previously been linked with a move to Anfield, with TV presenter Milton Neves (via Sport Witness) famously declaring last year that the Brazilian teenager was ‘on his way’ to Anfield.
However, the tables have turned, and it appears that Leonardo will be moving to sunny Rome rather than Merseyside.
According to Brazilian news outlet UOL, José Mourinho’s AS Roma has begun talks with Leonardo’s representatives, and the club appears to be the most likely destination for Leonardo.
However, if Liverpool is interested in Leonardo, which they should be given his tenacious playing style, they should not give up on a potential pursuit.
Despite being only 20 years old, Leonardo has already scored 42 goals and assisted 10 times for Santos. His explosive ability on the ball combined with his devastating finishing makes him the type of player who would thrive under Klopp and, more than likely, Mourinho.
He is also the type of player you want coming off the bench to make an impact. Firmino has evolved into this type of player in recent years.
Of course, a lot depends on how much Santos charges for his services. The Brazilian giants have made some high-priced sales in recent years, most notably of Neymar and Rodrygo Goes.
However, if Leonardo is available for less than his Transfermarkt valuation of $17 million (£13 million/€15 million), Liverpool should not hesitate to hijack Mourinho’s move for his services. A player of his caliber is a steal at that price.
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