Premier League side Liverpool are keen on signing Valencia striker Paco Alcacer according to reports in Spain.
The Merseysiders have struggled to find goals this season after the departure of last season’s top scorer Luis Suarez and an injury to Daniel Sturridge. The duo had scored a total of 53 goals last season, so the absence of both has hit Liverpool hard. Manager Brendan Rodgers forked out A?16m on Mario Balotelli, but the Italian has been poor so far and is yet to score a goal in the Premier League.
According to Spanish newspaper Marca, Alcacer is stalling over a new contract as his current deal expires in the summer of 2016. Liverpool are trying to take advantage of the situation as they have already spoken to Alcacer’s representatives on his availability. With the transfer window open now, Alcacer could wait and see any potential offers on his table before deciding to sign a contract.
Liverpool however will have to be hasty in their approach as Tottenham and AC Milan are being linked with him as well. Milan, who loaned out Fernando Torres to Atletico Madrid after signing him permanently from Chelsea, are in the market for a striker. Manager Filippo Inzaghi has Giampaolo Pazzini and M’Baye Niang as the only two recognised strikers left to choose from and will want to add new faces if his side are to challenge for the top three.
Liverpool have scored just 28 goals so far after 20 games with Steven Gerrard being their highest goal getter with five goals. Rickie Lambert, who was signed from Southampton, has had a decent season but his presence up front robs Liverpool of the dynamism that they were known for last season. The same can be said about Mario Balotelli as well. Rodgers has used Raheem Sterling up front more recently and it has worked out well. Alcacer, who is known for his pace, movement and finishing abilities, would be a perfect fit at Liverpool considering the way they play.
The Spaniard has thrived under new manager Nuno Esp rito Santo and has managed to score eight goals in all competitions with five of those coming in the league. He will cost around A?20m; a fee that Premier League sides like Liverpool and Tottenham can easily afford these days. Another factor that could prove vital is the form of the teams. Tottenham are performing better than Liverpool at the moment and are closer to a Champions League spot, which could help them in tempting Alcacer.