Roberto Firmino wanted by Atletico – time for Liverpool to make a change?

Liverpool, Roberto Firmino (Photo by LEE SMITH/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Liverpool, Roberto Firmino (Photo by LEE SMITH/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) /
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Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino is wanted by Spanish side Atletico Madrid, says information coming from Spain.

Bobby has had a tough campaign and we’ve seen diminishing returns from the Brazilian over the past couple of seasons.

Jurgen Klopp once said that nothing works without Firmino up front, but now things appear to be running at their best when he isn’t involved.

That could be down to the incredible amount of football he’s played for Klopp – who could begrudge him a rest? But regardless, it appears as if this team needs a refresh and Firmino could be sacrificed on that altar.

Atletico is keen on taking the Brazilian off Klopp’s hand, said a report by El Gol Digital that was shared by the Echo. They are trying to get their ducks in a line in case Luis Suarez leaves the side, and will turn towards Firmino to replace the former Red.

The 34-year-old has scored 19 goals in 25 appearances under Diego Simeone, a return far greater than many thought he was capable of. Suarez’s contract expires in June 2022, and there’s no mention in the report of why Atletico might let the Uruguayan legend leave.

Should Liverpool let Roberto Firmino go?

This team definitely needs a refresh. Sadio Mane, Firmino and Mohamed Salah are all approaching their final elite years at the same time, while the rest of the unit is beginning to look like the emotional and physical toll of the past three years is finally catching up with them.

Right now, Bobby is probably the most expendable of the three. His form has probably been the worst, while the things he does so well aren’t being done well and the team is suffering.

The money could be used for a squad refresh, particularly in that forward area, and great teams have always taken the tough decisions to move on good players to make way for the next generation.