Scout Report Of Liverpool Target Zeca
Liverpool, under Jurgen Klopp, showed plenty of promise in 2016-17 Premier League campaign and clinched a 4th placed finish over Arsenal that earned them a place in the final qualification round of 2017-18 UEFA Champions League competition. The Reds, however, are determined to break the bank this term in order to make an impact in Europe as well as fight for the Premier League title having narrowly missed out on it during the 2013-14 season.
Jurgen Klopp, the ex-Borussia Dortmund gaffer, seems to have identified a host of names who can strengthen the Reds for seasons to come. A few areas need to be strengthened and a new left back is Klopp’s one of the topmost priorities. Alberto Moreno failed to impress the Reds boss and is now almost set to depart after spending the majority of the campaign among the substitutes.
James Milner, the veteran Englishman, deputised in a make-shift left back role throughout the season and earned loads of applauds for his sheer class and scrupulous professionalism. Despite Milner’s mastery, Liverpool still need a specialist in that role and as per reports, they have enquired about the availability of Santos FC starlet Zeca.
Zeca, 23, has been a regular for the Brazilian heavyweights for the past two campaigns. He was also a member of the Selecao U23s who won the prestigious gold medal in 2016 Rio Olympics. Although he extended his contract last year that ties him up until December 2020, the deal reportedly has a £11m release clause and Liverpool are monitoring the situation amidst strong interests from La Liga outfit Valencia CF.
Zeca, who started his career as a right fullback, switched flanks lately and became a regular in his new role. He is dynamic, pacy, known for his overlapping runs and attacking intent. Zeca has strong shooting ability as well as dribbling and passing skills. He is defensively sound too and despite his low centre of gravity, the fullback has flourished enough with his positioning, blocking and tackling traits.
Also, he is regarded for his technique while holding on to the ball along with calmness, determination and concentration at such a young age. The Brazilian, primarily a right-footer, finds it difficult at times while crossing the ball, however, he loves to cut inside, do lay offs and combine well with his teammates by playing smart one-twos.
The player, meanwhile, is keen to a move to Europe in order to make it to Brazil’s senior squad prior to next year’s World Cup and Santos have reportedly ‘offered’ their academy graduate to Los Che who have made positive indications to meet the asking fee. Liverpool need to act first if they want the Brazilian who is capable enough to upgrade his rank along with the Reds’ Samba boys – Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino.