Anderson Talisca, who has been on Liverpool’s radar for over a month, is reportedly close to completing a switch to Anfield this summer.
According to Lucas Sposito of Sportwitness (h/t Soccerlens), a fee of £20 million has been agreed between Benfica and Liverpool for midfielder Anderson Talisca. However, the deal is not as simple as it looks. There are issues regarding the Brazilian’s work permit due to the player’s lack of international experience. Also, an interest from Championship side Wolverhampton Wanderers has further complicated the possibility of a transfer.
It is reported that Benfica are now only waiting for the Football Association to give a response to the work permit request, and sort the final paperwork out. If the visa for the Liverpool move is denied, then the Brazilian would be joining Wolves instead, as O Jogo believe the rules for the Championship are not so strict.
According to Transfermarkt, Talisca played 34 matches in the 2015/16 season, netting nine goals and providing one assist. Still a relatively raw talent, the Brazilian is an efficient passer of the ball, and has a lethal left leg. He is also versatile and can be deployed as a striker despite predominantly being a midfielder.
Given the attacking exuberance at Anfield, is it worth spending £20 million on Talisca?
Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool boasts of skillful attackers in the form of Philippe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino, Divock Origi, Daniel Sturridge and now Sadio Mane – who recently completed a big-money transfer from Southampton. Already Klopp would have a dilemma on his plate as to which of the aforementioned players should be part of his playing eleven. The German is expected to field a 4-3-3 which would see only three of the attackers make the cut.
The last thing on the boss’s mind would be to shell out 20 million quid on someone with absolutely no experience of life in England’s top-tier. It looks more likely a move for a defender would be paramount, rather than adding to an already overflowing attacking roster.
