Liverpool should definitely revive their interest in Nabil Fekir
Liverpool played out a goalless draw against Manchester City at Anfield this weekend as Jurgen Klopp’s men continued their winless run, which extended to four games on the bounce. The Reds should be relieved to make their way into the international break after playing a hectic round of fixtures over the last month.
After making a superb start to their season, the Merseyside club have slightly dipped in form, especially their attack. While their backline has been superb this season, their frontline seems to be having trouble in the final third.
Liverpool are known to be devastating on the counter but they currently lack the threat they so often posed last season. This could be due to a slight decline in Mohamed Salah’s form.
However, it could also be due to the absence of a creative attacking midfielder. Liverpool never replaced the departed Philippe Coutinho and instead, brought in two defensive midfielders.
The Reds were linked with a move for Nabil Fekir but negotiations ultimately fell through. According to the Express, Liverpool had agreed to a £53 million deal before it eventually collapsed in the final moments. But reviving interest in the French midfielder does make sense for Jurgen Klopp’s side.
While Liverpool’s midfield has done well defensively in the last few games, they have struggled to create chances going forward. The Reds lack a quality playmaker in their squad and that bleakness has now moved onto their attack.
Nabil Fekir is a superb attacking midfielder who is capable of playing in a wide number of roles and systems. There is still no clarification as to why the move collapsed in the first place but making a move for him in January should be a top priority at this moment.
The Lyon captain has started this season in strong form as well, scoring 2 goals and providing 1 assist in 5 league appearances. He has also picked up 1 goal and 2 assists in 2 Champions League appearances. The 25-year-old was exceptional in Lyon’s Champions League victory against Manchester City. (Stats Courtesy – Whoscored)
Fekir ran the show on the night and is the kind of midfielder who likes to pull the strings going forward. He is capable of playing on either flank as well, despite often being fielded as a central attacking midfielder.
Klopp should definitely go back in for the French midfielder in January. Liverpool are having trouble making things happen in the middle of the park and acquiring Fekir could help them solve that dilemma. Hence, signing him should be Klopp’s top priority at this moment.