Liverpool

Liverpool

Premier League • England

‘Detailed investigation’ threatens to derail Liverpool move that would be ‘perfect’

Liverpool forward Divock Origi

Liverpool forward Divock Origi could see his proposed move to AC Milan scuppered after a transfer guru revealed why all deals are “currently on standby.”

The Belgian forward, 27, is poised to leave Liverpool as a free agent this summer. Origi will leave the Reds as a cult favourite having written his name into club folklore by scoring a host of important and memorable goals.

Jurgen Klopp has spoken in wholly glowing terms about his sixth-choice forward. Chances in the first-team have been in short supply in recent seasons, though Origi has always produced the goods on the rare occasions he’s been required.

Liverpool fans will no doubt keep a keen eye on his progress when he does depart. Widespread reporting in recent months has suggested his next destination is Italy.

Indeed, AC Milan have emerged as the frontrunner to snap him up on a free. Details of his proposed contract length and salary have been circulating in the media for some time.

However, according to transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, Origi’s move to Milan is in question.

The doubt stems from the proposed sale of AC Milan from Elliott Management Corporation to Bahrain-based Investcorp.

That transaction is it its infancy at present, though Di Marzio revealed all AC Milan “deals and goals are currently on standby” while it’s ongoing.

Origi to AC Milan – yes or no?

When asked by German outlet WettFreunde whether Origi’s move will happen, Di Marzio said: “I guess so.

“The situation at AC Milan is going very slowly as there is a detailed investigation regarding the ownership of Elliott Fund to Investcorp. All deals and goals are currently on standby.

“AC Milan have spoken extensively with Origi’s agents. They are very close to finding an agreement and Milan know with [Olivier] Giroud they have a year left.

“[Zlatan] Ibrahimovic is without a contract in the summer and I don’t know if he will stay. They definitely need another striker.

“They don’t have a budget right now to buy a lot of defenders, midfielders and forwards. And they need to buy Sven Botman, possibly Renato Sanches and another one for midfield.”

Klopp has labelled Origi the best finisher at Liverpool and tipped him to “explode” at his next club.

Di Marzio reckons Origi would be the perfect addition at the San Siro and a move would also benefit the player greatly.

Firstly, he would likely be a regular starter in Milan. Furthermore, AC are currently top of Serie A and have already qualified for next season’s Champions League.

“Bringing in Origi, who is without a contract in the summer, is a perfect deal for Milan because Origi needs more playing time in another team,” continued Di Marzio.

Divock Origi in advanced talks with AC Milan

Divock Origi in advanced talks with AC Milan

Divock Origi looks set for Italy switch as AC Milan talks advance

“At Liverpool he always comes off the bench, while at Milan he would probably be a starter. I think he has the skillset to be one of the best strikers in Italy.

“Although he doesn’t play much this year, when he does play he scores and is important for the team.

“Giroud arrived from Chelsea where he didn’t play much and is now Milan’s best player. That shows the difference between the Premier League and Serie A: when you’re on the bench there, you’re among the best players in Italy.”