Atletico Madrid are interested in Roberto Firmino, with the Brazilian already weighing up his options over a summer move away from Liverpool.
According to Fichajes, La Liga champions Atletico Madrid are weighing up a move for Roberto Firmino for the summer transfer window, as Diego Simeone eyes a new striker to lead the line for his side. The Brazilian forward is open to the possibility of leaving Liverpool after the current season, having moved slightly down the pecking order.
Roberto Firmino has been integral to Jurgen Klopp’s playing style over the years, forming the main link player between their flying wingers. Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane may have received widespread praises for their goals in this Liverpool side, although it is the Brazilian who usually stitched the front three together.
Injury problems have restricted Firmino from playing regularly this season, with the Liverpool forward making just 15 appearances in the Premier League. With the Brazilian’s contract expiring in 2023, Klopp is already making plans to freshen up the forward line in the upcoming summer transfer window.
While Diogo Jota has often played centrally, the Portuguese international is largely seen as a wide attacker. Klopp might thus have to dip into the market for a top draw striker, which could put Firmino’s place in the team in doubt. Darwin Nunez is among the strikers linked, which indicates Liverpool’s intention to spend big on a new face.
The Merseysiders are also linked with Red Bull Salzburg striker Karim Adeyemi, and there could be plenty of other names that could emerge as the season approaches its end. Looking at the prospect for the future, Firmino could decide on not renewing his deal and move on from Anfield to pursue his playing career elsewhere.
While there could be plenty of suitors for the 30-year-old Liverpool forward, La Liga giants Atletico Madrid could be the perfect destination. Diego Simeone has always liked his lead striker to possess the physical attributes present in Firmino.
Atletico Madrid could let Luis Suarez leave in the summer, while Arsenal-linked Joao Felix could also leave alongside the Uruguayan. These are indications that Simeone might need to freshen things up in the frontline, as goalscorers and creators have been the club’s biggest problems this season.
Firmino does fit into the profile of the striker Atletico Madrid need for the next phase. He will also likely cost less than other options considering his age and contract situation. Liverpool may not stand in Firmino’s way if the Brazilian wishes to move from Anfield.
But recent reports have claimed that Liverpool are ready to offer Firmino a new deal. It remains to be seen how much the Merseysiders may demand if the Brazilian forward pushes for an exit and if there could be room for negotiations for La Liga champions Atletico Madrid to get the best possible deal for the striker.