One of the most persistent rumors over the last month or so has been the transfer of Basel’s Egyptian winger Mohamed Salah to Premier League giants Liverpool. Despite multiple reports claiming Salah’s imminent arrival, there still hasn’t been any official word from both clubs. So, here’s a look at three reasons why Liverpool should look to confirm the signing of this talented winger.

1. Strengthening the attack

Liverpool are woefully short in attack following the injury to Daniel Sturridge, and recent signings Oussama Assaidi, Fabio Borini and Iago Aspas have failed to set the stage alight, leaving Luis Suarez as the only recognized attacker of note. While Assaidi and Borini have since been shipped out on loan, summer signing Aspas has hardly inspired confidence when given the chance, and may be leaving on loan this January, leaving teenager Raheem Sterling to fill in.

Salah’s arrival would provide Brendan Rodgers options in attack, and increase the depth of the squad, which seems paper thin, and was nealy stretched too far over the busy festive period. His movement in the final third is excellent, and he has the ability to drag defenders out of position, which may give Suarez the space he needs to weave his magic. An interchanging forward line of Mohamed Salah playing with Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge could make the Kop buzz with excitement.

2. Goals from wider positions

Salah has an incredible record for his national side and has a goals return of 17 in 26 internationals to go with 20 goals in one and half seasons at Basel. Although he plays in a wider role than most attackers, he uses his intelligence to find space. He plays in an inverted style on to his favored left foot, and looks to come deep to get the ball, and has put in impressive performances in the Champions League this season.

According to European football expert Ross Dunbar, “sharp decision-making and movement is key to the Egyptian’s overall game and Salah has superb composure in-front of goal.” Liverpool have been crying out for such a player, with both Raheem Sterling and Jordan Henderson missing gilt-edged chances in recent games that have cost the Reds dearly against the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea. Having a composed head may help in burying more of the numerous chances the Reds create.

3. Investing in youth

Ever since the arrival of the Fenway Sports Group as the club’s owners, there has been a marked shift in the transfer policy at Anfield. The focus has been on youth, and the potential resale value of the players the club decides to invest in. At 21, he is just the sort of player that would appeal to the American owners as a potential investment.

The transfer fee quoted by various sources has been £7 million, and for a player of his quality, it may be a steal. It would make much more sense to invest £7 million on a player now and nurture him to be the next big thing, rather than wait for a couple of years and then have to shell out huge money on him.

Scouting Salah (Video),