Liverpool and Manchester City have reportedly been linked with a move for the Red Bull Salzburg forward Noah Okafor.
According to a report from Florian Plettenberg, Liverpool and Manchester City are among the clubs keeping tabs on Noah Okafor. And a move for the 22-year-old forward during the January transfer window could be on the cards, with Red Bull Salzburg demanding around €40 million for him.
The Swiss attacker has been outstanding for the Austrian club season, and he has ten goals and two assists to his name across all competitions. Okafor is a prodigious young talent who has the potential to develop into a top-class player. So it is no surprise that the top European clubs are vying for his services.
The player could cost between €35 million and €40 million in January. And clubs like Liverpool and Manchester City should be able to afford him with their resources. The 22-year-old can operate as a wide forward as well as a centre forward, and his versatility will be an added bonus.
Liverpool could definitely use more quality and depth in their front three, and Okafor would be an excellent acquisition for Jurgen Klopp. The Reds need to bring in a long-term replacement for Roberto Firmino, even though the Brazilian will soon hold talks over a new contract. His deal expires in the summer and has not been able to agree on a renewal with Liverpool yet.
X News #Okafor: Transfer in winter is possible! No negotiations now but there’s is an interest from clubs like #MCFC, #LFC & AC Milan. Been told that United is not in. World Cup very important now. Price tag could be around €35-40m. Top season with Salzburg so far. @SkySportDE🇨🇭 pic.twitter.com/Lqx0xmznQ4
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) November 14, 2022
On the other hand, Manchester City could use some depth in the final third as well. The likes of Jack Grealish and Riyad Mahrez have not been at their best, and Pep Guardiola could use Okafor as a wide forward, as well as a backup to Erling Haaland from time to time.
Plettenberg claims that Manchester United are not keen on the player, despite the links. It will be interesting to see where Okafor ends up in January. The reported asking price of around €40 million seems reasonable for a player of his potential, and he has the quality to justify the fee in the long run.
Okafor needs to join a club where he will get ample first-team opportunities, and a move to Liverpool would perhaps be more suitable for him. Klopp has a track record of improving talented young attackers, and he could help the 22-year-old fulfil his tremendous potential.
