Liverpool

Liverpool

Premier League • England

Klopp demotion sparks hope surprise suitor can snatch Liverpool forward who’s made his mind up

Liverpool forwards Mohamed Salah. Darwin Nunez and Roberto Firmino

Liverpool plans involving a key forward could be scuppered after a report revealed a surprise suitor are readying a lucrative offer and hope to prey on his demotion under Jurgen Klopp.

The Reds endured a torrid start to the campaign, though showed signs they’d turned the corner prior to the World Cup. Successive victories against Tottenham and Southampton restored confidence, and many of the club’s top stars have been afforded an unusual mid-season break.

Indeed, the likes of Andy Robertson, Joel Matip, Thiago Alcantara and Roberto Firmino did not participate at the World Cup.

The latter was narrowly overlooked for selection by Brazil boss Tite. From a Reds perspective that ensured Firmino could participate in the club’s warm-weather training camp in the Middle East.

It also provided an opportunity for Liverpool and Firmino to knuckle down on what the future holds.

Firmino’s current deal expires at season’s end and per German journalist Florian Plettenberg, talks over an extension have commenced.

The early signs are said to be positive and Firmino reportedly envisions his future remaining at Anfield until at least 2025.

Firmino remains a popular figure on Merseyside and is a known favourite of Jurgen Klopp. Indeed, he previously claimed future football scholars would write books on how Firmino revolutionised the centre-forward position.

His bright start to the season has also empowered his case for a new deal. Firmino has nine goals and four assists from 19 matches combined across the Premier League and Champions League.

A new deal should therefore be straightforward, though per the Mirror, it’s not that simple.

Al-Nasr plotting Firmino coup

They report Dubai-based side Al-Nasr are contemplating a move having made Firmino a transfer target.

He’s free to negotiate with overseas clubs come January 1 and Al-Nasr will be banking on one thing.

Now 31, Firmino has gradually seen his minutes reduced in recent times. Darwin Nunez has been signed as his long-term successor, though prior to that, Diogo Jota was muscling in on his starts at centre-forward too.

Al-Nasr hope the guarantee of regular starts will turn Firmino’s head, though there’s no indication it will at this stage. Indeed, Plettenberg’s report suggested exactly the opposite.

Given the nature of where Al-Nasr are located, it stands to reason they’d be able to offer more money than Liverpool. However, Firmino has proven he still has plenty to give to a top European side like Liverpool.

Middle East confusion cleared up

The report claims Al-Nasr are the side who have lodged interest in Cristiano Ronaldo. However, it’s important to note there seems to be some confusion among the media regarding two clubs with similar names.

Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr and Dubai-based Al-Nasr are two entirely different entities.

Al Nassr (Saudi Arabia) are the club linked with Ronaldo, while Al-Nasr (Dubai) are the one now being mentioned alongside Firmino.

READ MORE: ‘Not yet’; Steve Nicol reveals why Jurgen Klopp should dial back Liverpool approach for in-demand World Cup star