Liverpool are reportedly preparing a January move for FC Rostov forward Sardar Azmoun as cover for Sadio Mane, who is set to be unavailable due to the African Cup of Nations.
The Guardian have claimed that Liverpool are prepared to dive into the market in the January transfer window in order to cover for the unavailability of in-form Senegalese international Sadio Mane. 21-year-old Rostov forward Sardar Azmoun has been identified as a potential target by the Reds.
Liverpool are currently enjoying an excellent run of form. Manager Jurgen Klopp has made a significant difference in a relatively short space of time, with the Reds’ sumptuous attack and steady midfield propelling them to the top of the English Premier League table. The Merseysiders look hungry as ever and there is a sense among the supporters that Klopp is indeed the right man to restore Liverpool’s stature in English football as well as in Europe.
One of the most talked about aspects of Liverpool’s season thus far has been the form of their attacking trio of Philippe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane, who have more than covered for the absence of a lethal out-and-out forward. Daniel Sturridge is the only forward Klopp seemingly trusts, but the Englishman’s propensity to pick up injuries means that he is not as reliable as one would expect a first-choice striker to be.
The Liverpool attack looks unbeatable, but also appears to lack depth. Come January, Sadio Mane will be unavailable for the Reds owing to his international duties at the African Cup of Nations. Liverpool are resigned to losing the former Southampton forward along with defender Joel Matip in January.
However, it looks like the German is already making plans to cover for the Senegalese’s absence. If the reports from the Guardian are to be believed, Liverpool are preparing to launch a formal bid in January to sign Sardar Azmoun.
The 21-year-old, who has been dubbed the ‘Iranian Messi’ by the media, has been on Liverpool’s radar from the beginning of the current season and Mane’s absence is likely to push the Reds into making a bid for the young sensation.
The Iranian forward has failed to sizzle this year with just 1 goal and 1 assist in the Russian Premier Division in 11 appearances, but his talent is unquestionable and Liverpool appear prepared to take the gamble. Only time will tell if Liverpool’s current form and fearless displays will take them to a much-awaited league title, but the campaign thus far has been cause for cheer for the Kop.
