Liverpool

Liverpool

Premier League • England

Roberto Firmino future: Fabrizio Romano reveals all on Juventus links as Jurgen Klopp’s surprise plan for Brazilian emerges

Roberto Firmino (9) of Liverpool is warming up before the UEFA Champions League match between Inter and Liverpool at Giuseppe Meazza in Milano

Reports that Juventus are ready to tempt Liverpool with a £20m bid for Roberto Firmino have been cleared up by Fabrizio Romano – with the trusted transfer journalist also providing an insight into Jurgen Klopp’s plans for the Brazilian.

Firmino is in the final year of his contract at Anfield, having signed in a bargain £29m deal from Hoffenheim in summer 2015. One of Brendan Rodgers’ final signings on Merseyside, Firmino has proved a vital cog in Liverpool’s success in that time.

Indeed, the Brazilian has won all there is to win in the game during his time at Anfield.

While not always the most prolific, he has never once lost the trust of Jurgen Klopp. But with just over 11 months left on his deal, reports are growing that a move away could be on the cards.

To that end, Monday’s Transfer Gossip provided details of an apparent £20m (€23.5m) bid from Juventus.

The Bianconeri are looking to remodel their attack and sense an opportunity to tempt Liverpool into his sale.

The fact Firmino only started 10 Premier League games for the Merseysiders last season seemingly strengthens their hand.

However, Romano has dismissed claims that Juve have been in contact with the Reds over Firmino.

He also insists the Brazilian remains very much a key part of Klopp’s plans going into the new season.

And while he may no longer be first choice, it seems Firmino will continue to play his part.

Roberto Firmino to Juventus: the truth

Speaking to Caught Offside, Romano insists Klopp does not want to lose any more of his attacking options.

Liverpool have already lost Sadio Mane, Divock Origi and Takumi Minamino this summer.

And with Diogo Jota currently nursing an injury, the Reds cannot afford to let Firmino go.

“So far Juventus have not approached Liverpool for Roberto Firmino. The situation is totally quiet. Jurgen Klopp considers him part of the project, especially because a lot of resources are needed in the World Cup season,” Romano explains.

“Still, in my opinion, it’s not looking like he’ll be a regular for Liverpool this season. That is a shame because he’s a great talent.

“I’m sure he can still contribute a lot to Klopp’s team, but if he found a club where he could be a key player he would really get his magic back.”

He added: “Leaving Liverpool will be difficult, though. They have sold players already this summer, with Sadio Mane, Takumi Minamino and Divock Origi leaving. I doubt there is much desire to sell more.”

Liverpool need to come to decision on forward

That said, it makes complete sense for Liverpool FC to retain Firmino’s services.

With a hectic schedule, the Reds will once again expect to be competitive on four trophy fronts this season.

And Klopp will need as strong a squad as possible in order to achieve that.

As Firmino showed last season, he is still capable of turning games in their favour. Take the Champions League clash against Inter Milan for example. During the first leg at the San Siro, Liverpool were under the cosh with Inter growing into the game.

Klopp made the bold choice to bring on Firmino, which helped change the game in their favour.

To that end, he can more than still play a part.

Roberto Firmino heading to Juventus is shock deal?

Roberto Firmino heading to Juventus is shock deal?

Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino has been linked with a shock move to Juventus as he could partner with Vhalovic up front

But with his deal expiring in June 2023, Liverpool may need to offer the star an extension.

He turns 31 in October so it is likely that would just be a one-year extension on his existing arrangement.

Klopp, though, will no doubt hope he sticks around with the player scoring 98 goals in 327 appearances for Liverpool.

Meanwhile, talk that Liverpool could sign Bukayo Saka is growing with one observer detailing a big reason why he may look to leave Arsenal.