Brendan Rodgers knows that he’s going to be up against it this summer, with his transfer activity watched like a hawk by his critics. With the pressure on his position already at breaking point, he’ll live or die by the players he signs during the break.
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Liverpool transfer news
Speaking after Tuesday evening’s desperately disappointing defeat at the hands of Hull City, which has left us seven points adrift of the Champions League places with just four games to play, Rodgers admitted that he must sign two “marquee players” to return us to the top.
In the quotes taken by the Daily Mirror, the Northern Irishman added that the Reds must fill the void left by the departure of Luis Suarez and the injury to Daniel Sturridge, something we have simply failed to do this season.
As we close in on the opening of the transfer window, we count down a list of ten potential signings who could be considered marquee arrivals. We discuss what we’d have to do to get them and where they could fit in for us…
10) Pedro (Barcelona)
He might not have the reputation of a Luis Suarez or a Lionel Messi. However, the fact that he competes with these players on a regular basis for a spot in the team proves that he has ‘marquee’ written all over him. The Spanish international has scored 97 goals in just over 300 games for the Catalans.
9) Ezequiel Lavezzi (Paris Saint Germain)
The 29-year-old Argentine international has scored eight goals and provided eight assists so far this season, with PSG again chasing multiple honours. He could provide the Reds with a highly desirable threat from the flank, something that we’ve struggled with so far this season.
8) Kevin De Bruyne (Wolfsburg)
The former Chelsea outcast has been simply sensational this season. It will take a big fee to make Wolfsburg part with their prize asset but we could provide him with a route back into the Premier League. His 15 goals and 26 assists this season prove that he’s the creative outlet we need.
7) Radja Nainggolan (AS Roma)
Would add some much needed grit and power to our midfield. The 26-year-old Belgian has scored four goals in 40 appearances for Roma so far this season. He can be relied upon to get back and help the defence as well as push forward, with his passing and presence on the ball equally exemplary.
6) Roberto Firmino (1899 Hoffenheim)
The 23-year-old has made an instant impact on the Brazilian national squad, scoring twice in his first four appearances. His performances for Hoffenheim have been equally impressive, with 34 goals over the last two seasons. He would be the ideal player alongside Philippe Coutinho in a creative role.
5) Gonzalo Higuain (Napoli)
A highly proven, world class striker, who has already had to make do with playing Europa League football this season – helping Napoli reach the semi-final stage. He’s scored 50 goals in the last two seasons and would undoubtedly receive a warm welcomed at Anfield.
4) Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund)
A versatile forward who could certainly go a long way to solving our goalscoring problems. He’s scored 53 goals in 114 games for Dortmund, mostly as an attacking midfielder. He’s struggled with injuries over the last year or so but has still done enough to prove that he has a lot to offer.
3) Alexandre Lacazette (Lyon)
The Frenchman has bagged 30 goals in 37 games already this season, while he’s also bagged his first for the national side. Still only 23, he looks to have an incredible future ahead of him. It’s hard to see him struggling to adapt to English football with his strength and power.
2) Miralem Pjanic (AS Roma)
The possible answer to Steven Gerrard’s departure. Roma’s Bosnian playmaker has been crucial in his club’s rise over the last couple of years, inspiring back-to-back Champions League qualifications. His 16 goals in just over 100 games also represent a decent return.
1) Memphis Depay (PSV Eindhoven)
One of the stars of last summer’s World Cup, the Dutch forward has proved himself adept at playing through the middle and out wide. The 21-year-old has scored 27 goals in all competitions already this season, while it’s worth remembering that we have a proven track record of taking players from the Dutch league!
