Liverpool playmaker tipped for new role if Newcastle transfer completes

Shaqiri.Firmino.Liverpool.TEAMtalk

A Liverpool forward on the fringes of the squad has been tipped to be given license to roam if his proposed transfer to Newcastle goes ahead this summer.

Xherdan Shaqiri is the man in question, with the Swiss international struggling to establish himself in the Reds’ starting eleven since his 2018 move from Stoke City.

Afforded just 10 appearances in all competitions this season, the 28-year-old has failed to live up to the standards he set in 2018-19.

30 appearances and six goals were registered for Jurgen Klopp’s side in that campaign, including a memorable double against bitter rivals Man Utd.

Injuries and the imperious form of front three Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane have limited Shaqiri’s influence this term, however, leading to recent speculation the soon-to-be cash infused Newcastle could be his next destination.

With a £25m fee touted as being required for Liverpool to sign off on the sale, Magpies fans will be hoping the Swiss star can bring fresh impetus to their attacking play after Steve Bruce’s side ended up as the league’s joint-lowest scorers prior to football’s hiatus.

However, despite operating primarily as a wide forward in his time at Stoke and Liverpool pundit Danny Mills believes Shaqiri’s talents merit being given license to roam in a more central position at St. James’ Park.

“It would depend on the fee,” he told Football Insider.

 

“Obviously he is a quality player. If you can get him fit… we saw what he did for Liverpool last season. He has a lot to offer.

“If the price is right and the wages are not too high it could be a quality player for them.

“They would maybe play him in a more central role, an eight or a ten role – give him a bit of license and do not ask him to track back.

 

“He is a player that could excite the Newcastle fans.”

Turkish outfit Galatasaray have also been linked with a swoop, though the possibility remains of Klopp retaining the services of many of his squad players due to the financial uncertainty the coronavirus pandemic has caused.

Meanwhile, Jurgen Klopp has given his verdict on the possibility of Liverpool winning their maiden Premier League title at a neutral venue.