Atletico Madrid could set their sights on Roberto Firmino, in case they are forced to offload Luis Suarez, who is reportedly courted by Liverpool
According to El Gol Digital, Atletico Madrid are fearing the worst as Liverpool come knocking for Luis Suarez. The forward does not have a good relationship with coach Diego Simeone, despite the player’s impeccable scoring record in the ongoing campaign. It could lead to his departure in the summer, with the Reds on red alert.
Unfortunately for Atletico, a reported clause in Suarez’s contract should enable the player to leave Wanda Metropolitano for free at the end of his first season at the club. It should clear the way for Liverpool to re-sign the forward without having to negotiate a deal with Los Colchoneros, although it appears Simeone could potentially run a counter raid to sign Roberto Firmino.
The Spanish camp believes that the departure of Suarez, though unlikely to generate any transfer revenue, could give them the opportunity to revamp an attacking unit that has largely appeared reliant on the services of the Uruguayan international. As such, Firmino is likely to emerge as a potential target for Simeone, due to the Liverpool forward’s technically astute style of play.
Atletico also believe that the arrival of Suarez at Anfield could force Liverpool to make space for him in the team. And while players like Divock Origi has been linked with a move away from Merseyside in the summer, one would imagine that someone like Firmino could be the first option if they are to offload any particular star players.
The Brazilian has been part of an iconic attacking trifecta alongside Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane for a few years. However, as his two partners struggle for consistency, Firmino’s lack of productivity has been under the microscope more than ever, even forcing Liverpool to set their sights on a shock return for Suarez.
Having previously plied his trade at Anfield, the Uruguayan international should offer the much-needed quality and experience in front of goal for Liverpool. As for Firmino, his departure to Atletico Madrid could serve as a potential financial boost for the club as the Merseyside giants consider targets in the market including another La Liga star in Guido Rodriguez.
