Former Liverpool defender Phil Thompson has urged the Reds to go all out and sign Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain in the upcoming summer transfer window. Thompson also believes that its time the Anfield side should look to sign experienced players rather than focusing on youth as a part of their transfer policy.
Liverpool have struggled to get goals on a consistent rate this season thanks to Luis Suarez’s departure to Barcelona last summer and Daniel Sturridge’s long term injury absence. Summer signings Mario Balotelli and Rickie Lambert have hardly made an impact while the least said about Fabio Borini the better.
Thompson said, “Liverpool’s transfer strategy has to be different this summer. For too long the focus has been on youth – some signings have worked, some haven’t – but now the club must focus on getting experienced players in. It’s a massive window for the club and everyone will be watching who we’ll bring in, so there will be pressure to get it right. Strikers are a priority – Liverpool can’t afford another season without a fit, prolific strike force.”
There are widespread speculations regarding Napoli manager Rafa benitez’s future at the club and should the Spaniard leave, a mass exodus could follow. Should the Partenopei fail to qualify for the Champions League, Gonzalo Higuain’s exit will be inevitable.
The Argentine was earlier linked with Arsenal before he signed for the Italian side in 2013 for a club record £34.5m. But any negotiations with Napoli will be difficult as they claim that the player has a €100m transfer release clause.
Higuain though is an incredible striker who can turn games on their head and most importantly will thrive in Premier League conditions. Thompson also claimed, “I’ve been banging the drum for Gonzalo Higuain to come in for some time – he’s a really good, experienced international striker, but I wouldn’t say no to the likes of Christian Benteke, who has proved himself in the Premier League.”
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