Sadio Mane has been heavily linked with a Liverpool switch recently, with the Senegalese winger apparently set to be our marquee signing this summer. Respected journalist Ben Smith claims the move is as good as done, with Mane’s switch from Southampton “a matter of when, not if”.
@alsmy100 getting closer. Mane to #LFC now appears a matter of when, not if
— Ben Smith (@BSmith) June 25, 2016
While Southampton were apparently hoping for a little more at first, Mane has now apparently had a £30m price-tag slapped on his head (via the BBC). The Mirror’s David Anderson claims he’ll be our “big summer buy” after a move for Mario Gotze fell through, also seeming to think the deal was almost done.
Liverpool have stepped up pursuit of Mane in recent weeks because of Mario Gotze’s reluctant to join them. Mane will be their big summer buy
— David Anderson (@MirrorAnderson) June 24, 2016
Mane is unquestionably a superb player, and he’s been one of the standout performers at Southampton recently. He’s unlike anyone else we’ve got at the club at the moment too, and could potentially prove to be a superb signing.
Jurgen Klopp really needs some more pacy and natural wingers at the club to fit in with his style, and Mane seems like he could fit in perfectly. His quick feet and unpredictability could be a real boon, and his ability to counter-attack quickly will suit Klopp to a tee.
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£30m is arguably a little on the dear side, although players moving from one Premier League club to another often come with a premium attached. We’ve done plenty of business with Southampton in the past but we’re yet to really get ourselves a bargain. Mane doesn’t seem like he’ll be a bargain, but hopefully he’ll be a booming success.