Why Liverpool must muscle in on Arsenal’s talks with Colombian

In the absence of Radamel Falcao, there was always going to be quite a big chance for one of Colombia’s World Cup squad to play himself into global recognition at the tournament.

Winger Juan Cuadrado has taken that opportunity with vigour in the nation’s first two Group C outings, registering three assists over the course of those matches.

His displays have been of such a high calibre that Fiorentina, who had co-owned the player with Udinese, took the decision to purchase full ownership of the 26-year-old.

That could well be a move born more out of enterprise than ambition as reports have since emerged that Arsenal are set to open talks with the player over a supposed £40m move.

However, if Liverpool had any sense they’d try to scupper the north London club’s plans to sign Cuadrado.

During an impressive Serie A campaign prior to the World Cup, the Necocli native played in a variety of positions all over the midfield as well as at right full-back.

With Brendan Rodgers far more likely to tweak his tactics compared to Arsene Wenger, it’s the Northern Irishman who could better utilise Cuadrado’s versatility.

His strongest position is on the left wing, where he scored seven goals in 11 games for the Viola last season, although his impressive outings in Brazil have been on the right.

Both wings are areas Rodgers needs to strengthen ahead of the new campaign, where the Reds are 13/2 to win the Premier League title, although the boss’ happiness to play three at the back means the Colombian flyer can just as easily be deployed as a wing back.

Continued eye-catching displays at the World Cup, starting with the first goal against Japan at 11/1, will only make Fiorentina hike up their asking price for the player.

So Rodgers must act quickly if he wants to add Cuadrado to his squad.

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