Glen Johnson’s future at Liverpool remains highly uncertain after developments over the past few weeks. The right back has been under the scanner over the last two seasons as his form has been nothing short of poor. With Brendan Rodgers’ now setting up his side in a 3-4-3 formation, Liverpool have been in great form since the turn of the year. The Anfield side have shrugged a disastrous start to the season and are within touching distance of a Champions League spot.
Moreover, with three centre backs being used by Rodgers, a right back might not fit in the system which Liverpool have been using. Johnson’s contract with Liverpool is set to end in the summer and there have been no talks over a possible extension. Italian side have expressed their interest to sign the 30 year old and it can be assumed that Johnson’s future might lie away from Merseyside.
But Rodgers needs to take a big call on the player: Will he sell the right back in January or lose him on a free in the summer? With 22 year old Jon Flanagan expected to return soon to the action after his lengthy injury layoff, the Reds could take a chance to sell Johnson and raise some cash in January. However it could be risky given Liverpool are set to feature in Europa League in the coming months.
Recently, Liverpool were linked with a £23m move for dazzling Roma midfielder Miralem Pjanic as a replacement for Steven Gerrrad. The Italian club would be desperate to hold on the nimble footed star but in a recent interview with Bleacher Report, Roma President James Pallotta revealed that they could sell Pjanic if a huge offer is tabled.
This is an interesting situation for Liverpool. A few days ago we reported that the player who is also a €30m Manchester United target wants to stay in the Italian capital. The Reds though could be shrewd in their transfer dealing. It could be like killing two birds with one stone.
First, Rodgers could offer Johnson to Roma in January and can make a pre summer agreement for a ‘player plus cash deal’ for Pjanic. Also, it will force Roma to reject all possible move for Manchester United target Kevin Stoortman. The Italian side won’t be parting ways with two of their prized assets in the same transfer window. It would be thus enticing for them to get enough cash for the summer and time from now to search a possible replacement for Pjanic.
Maybe me, not Ian Ayre should be in charge of transfer dealings at Liverpool.
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