Liverpool Links to La Liga’s Talent
By Paul Drake
Liverpool are in a battle with the top clubs of the Premier League for La Liga’s young crop of talent. Both Karim Benzema and Inaki Williams have been linked to Anfield.
It was already reported that Liverpool and Chelsea look to lock horns over Napoli’s Kalidou
Koulibaly. Jurgen Klopp will be very active in this upcoming summer transfer window. After standing-pat during the January window, Liverpool cannot afford to not upgrade their side.
The Reds are positioned for Champions League competition next season. In addition, they will still battle for the Premier League title, and both domestic cups. Klopp needs talent and depth that work well in his system for his side to succeed.
Link to Karim Benzema
Now the Reds join Arsenal and other in the race for Benzema, who has struggled this season but still hold a wealth of talent. In his 24 La Liga appearances this season, Benzema has scored 9 goals, created just 31 chances, and passed an average rate of 81%.
This is not close to Benzema’s 2015-2016 La Liga statistics. During last season, Benzema made 27 appearances, scoring 24 goals, creating 42 chances, and passing accurately at 81%. This is the talent that Klopp will be looking to extract from the Real Madrid forward.
According to reports, Karim Benzema has drawn five offers already from top European clubs. There are not details about whether one of those offers is from Anfield, but Liverpool are very interested in his services next season.
It is also reported that Arsenal, Inter Milan, AC Milan, and PSG are also pursuing Benzema. The Reds have some stiff competition.
Tracking Inaki Williams
Like many young talented European stars, Inaki Williams is linked with several Premier League teams for a summer signing. As a good football club does, Liverpool are tracking the Athletic Bilbao forward.
Reports claim that Williams is being scouted by Liverpool and has a “£42m buyout clause.” This will certainly be a deterrent to many clubs. Is Williams worth that much money?
This season in La Liga, Williams has made 32 appearances, scoring 4 goals, creating 31 chances, and only passing accurately 68% of the time. Those are fantastic numbers, but there is a lot more talent to be developed. Williams is just 22 years old.
Klopp is determined to upgrade his attacking options, especially with Daniel Sturridge’s likely exit. I think Sturridge will leave but hate to see him go. He has had a poor attitude and work ethic in Klopp’s system this season. That being said, Inaki Williams would be a nice addition to the Reds side if they are willing to pay the high price tag.
Next: Liverpool Interested in Napoli's, Kalidou Kouilbaly
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