Liverpool strike deal to add to their Brazilian ranks
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There are few firsts left for Jurgen Klopp to tick off as Liverpool boss. He’s seen his first goal, celebrated his first win and even been embroiled in his first management beef as the Reds’ boss, but as yet he doesn’t have his first signing for the senior squad.
Yes, Marko Grujic has arrived, but he’s been shipped straight back to Red Star Belgrade on loan. Many expect Liverpool recruits that will contribute to the first team to arrive and, according to media reports, the first deal of that nature could already be in place.
The Daily Mirror, via Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla, suggest the Merseyside club have agreed a fee to sign former AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato.
Still only 26 despite having seemingly been around forever, the Brazilian spent the 2014/15 season on loan at Sao Paulo from Corinthians. He scored 10 league goals in 33 games during that campaign, but remains willing to move away from his homeland in order to re-enter the European fray.
The 27-cap international is best known for his five-year stint at the San Siro, where he played 150 times in all competitions and scored 63 goals. Reports indicate that Liverpool have had their £11m bid accepted, with the player rejecting a more lucrative offer from China in order to pursue the Liverpool switch.
Pato would become the fourth senior Brazilian squad member at Anfield should he arrive, and although the likes of Lucas Leiva, Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino can certainly help him settle, the presence of the latter two could hinder his game time.
Although he is primarily a central striker, he would be fighting Christian Benteke, Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi and Danny Ings in that department. Another way in to the side could be via the left wing, although that is where one of Coutinho/Firmino would operate if they are selected in the same side.
However, after his recent comments about the weight of games in England, Klopp may see Pato’s addition as necessary in order to build a squad big enough to be able to cope. Liverpool currently have 11 players out injured.
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