Scout Report – Diego Lainez
Jurgen Klopp is reportedly lining up a potential long-term move for Mexican wonder kid Diego Lainez. Scouts from Liverpool are understood to have been monitoring Lainez’s performances, especially in the recently concluded FIFA U-17 World Cup in India. Reports have been positive as Lainez netted twice against England, even though the Mexicans crashed out early in the round of 16.
The youngster certainly has a long way to go but with an interest from Liverpool, Lainez could be tempted to think about the Premier League.
Let’s take a closer look at his profile.
History
Born in 2000, Lainez currently plays for Club America, where he broke through as a 16-year-old last season, and is seen as one of the biggest young talents in world football.
He burst on to the scene after making his first-team debut for Club America at the age of 16, and has since went on to become a regular in Miguel Herrera’s side. Lainez has featured 16 times in all competitions for the Liga MX outfit, but is yet to net his first goal for the club. However, after shining bright in the U-17 World Cup, the Mexican club is likely to play the talented play-maker more often.
Even though he is still so young, Lainez appears to have established a stronghold for himself in a world of cut-throat competitiveness. He has been excelling on the pitch ever since he first touched a ball, and with the right mentor, there is no limiting Lainez’s potential.
Playing Style
A left-footed forward, Lainez is primarily known for his blistering pace up front. He is creative and methodical in terms of orchestrating attacks. Despite being a teenager, Lainez has a very mature reading of the game which often fuels his sharp decision-making on the field.
Lainez appears to be equally adept at passing and crossing, while also having a penchant for getting his name on the score sheet. It is truly refreshing to see a youngster who takes calculated risks instead of just blindly lunging ahead. What makes him all the more interesting is the fact that he does not shirk his defensive duties.
Lainez’s Future
A move to Liverpool will certainly seem enticing for a youngster but we are aware of several promising youngsters failing to make it big in the Premier League. He already gets minutes for Liga MX side Club America in his homeland, demonstrating the talent that he is. However, he will have to compete harder to earn a starting spot at the Merseyside club.
Lainez plays in an attacking midfield role and could certainly add something to Liverpool’s Under-23 side but it is also a side which is already packed with talent. The likes of Ben Woodburn, Ovie Ejaria and Harry Wilson have been extremely impressive, which could potentially hamper Lainez’s time on the field. Thus, having already established a sense of rhythm with Club America, the player should perhaps considering staying put for the near future at least.