Go for it Klopp – Why Liverpool must go all out to sign this Brazilian replacement for Philippe Coutinho

Go for it Klopp – Why Liverpool must go all out to sign this Brazilian replacement for Philippe Coutinho

Liverpool lost their key Brazilian Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona during the January window and the summer exit of Lucas Leiva left Roberto Firmino as the only Selecao representative at Merseyside. But if a recent report from Turkish Football is to be believed, Firmino might find his new compatriot in Anderson Talisca, who has caught the eyes of several top sides following his red-hot form at Beskitas.

A report from The Sun had earlier claimed that Manchester United are keen on acquiring his services as well, meaning Liverpool, a long-term admirer of his talent, have now joined their arch-rivals in a quest to sign the promising Brazilian.

Talisca, 24, has represented his nation in several youth ranks, but his sensational form in Super Lig has now earned him a senior call-up for the ongoing friendlies prior to the FIFA World Cup, which is regarded as the greatest football event and will take place in Russia this summer.

The midfield attacker was signed by Portuguese Primeira Liga champions Benfica in 2014, following his impressive run with Brazilian outfit Bahia, whom he had joined in 2009. Talisca wasted no time in progressing through the academy ranks and eventually completed a bizarre loan move to Turkish giants Besiktas in August 2016.

Although the season-long loan deal had the option of extension for another campaign, his decision surprised many as a move to Turkey is usually popular among veterans who are at the wrong end of 30 and are in the twilight years of their football career.

But the youngster proved his critics wrong and took his game to the next level in his debut campaign with 17 goals, which helped Besiktas emerge as the Turkish champions. His scintillating form continues this term as well and the player has now notched up 14 goals in 33 outings in all competitions.

Talisca was previously linked to Wolves, as per a report from Turkish publication Milliyet. But the profile of Manchester United and Liverpool have now widened the options. Liverpool did not panic despite Coutinho’s winter egress and Jurgen Klopp, the charismatic Reds boss, opted to wait until the summer to avail more options, even as he continued to produce results with the tools already at his disposal at Anfield.

But a fresh attacking recruit is obviously needed to strengthen the squad and Talisca holds all the traits to be successful under the German gaffer. He is quick, skilful and has great footwork as well.

The player is known for his swift movements in the attacking third, great set-piece skills and finishing prowess, along with physicality and his ability to shoot from distances. He builds the game up, operates in advanced areas to create chances and also scores decisive goals for his side on a frequent basis.

In fact, Talisca was pivotal in Besiktas’ Champions League group stage success as he guided them to finish as group leaders ahead of favourites AS Monaco, FC Porto, and RB Leipzig. A move to Turkey has truly been a great career step for the Brazilian who has flourished immensely and is now prepared to make a switch to one of Europe’s greatest of all time.