Latest Developments:
- Liverpool are preparing for a summer revamp in the transfer market.
- Xavi Simons has been an important player for RB Leipzig under Marco Rose.
- A fee of around £70-80m is expected if Liverpool are to move for him.
- Connections to former and current Liverpool bosses could prove pivotal.
Whisper+ Analysis
Authenticity (4/5): Daily Star says so
The future of several current Liverpool stars – including Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez – lies in the dark, as the Reds plan for a summer revamp.
According to the Daily Star (via Liverpool Echo), the Reds are ahead of Manchester City and Manchester United in the race for Simons’ signature. The report only strengthens the links between the two parties.
In addition, Liverpool's existing interest in the Red Bulls star from Anfield is already known, so there is a solid foundation on which to harbour belief that this move will happen.
Value (3.5/5): Big money move
Simons’ stock has soared in recent seasons, with Leipzig reportedly expecting nothing less than £70-80m for the Dutchman. However, his performance metrics in the Bundesliga this term arguably justify such expenditure.
Suitability (4/5): Premier League level
With 6.85 progressive passes and 5.31 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes this season, Simons evidences as a high-return investment in the long run, especially as Liverpool seek a versatile attacker who can function in different roles.
Upgrade (3.5/5): Modern replacement with room to grow
Replacing a player of Salah’s stature is a tall order, yet Simons brings a blend of youthful exuberance and refined technical ability that could eventually transform Liverpool’s forward line. At just 21, he has ample room for improvement.
Logic (4/5): Leverage the Dutch connection
Simons could benefit under the guidance of fellow Dutchman Arne Slot at Anfield. Furthermore, he's also been under the watchful eye of Slot's predecessor Jurgen Klopp for the past two months, since he began his tenure as Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull GmbH on New Years' Day.
Klopp no doubt keeps an occasional eye out for Liverpool these days, so it wouldn't be a stretch to imagine Klopp and Slot doing some bargaining when it comes to negotiations for Simons' signature…
Whisper+ Verdict: 19/25
Liverpool have a strategic commitment to future-proof their attacking prowess, and Simons offers significant potential to elevate Liverpool’s game. If the transfer goes through, it could set the stage for a new era at Anfield. However, only time will tell whether this bold move can live up to the hype.
