Whilst it would be a little hasty to say that Liverpool and Spurs have striker issues at this stage of the season, given their high flying league positions, it’s still worth noting that the two still have questions to ask concerning their central strikers.
With new signing Jansen struggling to share responsibilities with the newly returned Harry Kane, and with Daniel Sturridge failing to convince as a dependable central striker, both sides look to take a chance on Malian forward Moussa Marega.
Snatched from rivals Sporting at the final hour, Marega signed for Portuguese giants FC Porto at the start of this season.
Initially struggling for goals (the striker scoring just one in nine), the burly right sided forward/striker has been busy tearing up trees whilst on loan at Vitoria de Guimaraes, scoring ten goals in nine appearances.
Whilst a handful of the Premier League’s middling clubs showed interest prior, his goal scoring exploits have lead to some of Europe’s big clubs sending their scouts to look at the player.
And what are they seeing?
The Mali international is traditionally a right winger, however his physical presence sets him apart from others of his ilk, a battering ram of sorts. It’s no accident he carries the nickname ‘the Malian Terminator’ for instance. It’s these physical attributes that have seen him asked to play as a sole striker on three occasions this season.
And he really hasn’t missed much. Meraga has averaged around 2.9 goals per game, compare that to a certain Zlatan Ibrahimovic who’s number is nearer 5.4.
Currently The Mali international is rated at £6m, however an eye wincing buy-out clause of 36m will no doubt scare many potential buyers off. That doesn’t of course mean Porto will be tempted by something by a lower offer.
Given Klopp’s ability to get the best out of his false nine Firmino, not to mention the frightening form of the Brazilians support players Coutinho and Mane, perhaps Spurs will be the more likely of the two to table a bid.
Currently the players parent side sit fivr points adrift of Benfica, given the strikers current form in front of goal they may indeed feel compelled to recall the striker in January.
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