Liverpool have agreed a deal for RB Salzburg’s Japanese winger Takumi Minamino, according to Melissa Reddy of The Independent. Minamino has a release clause of just £7.5 million and the transfer will take place during the January window. It is said that Liverpool’s brilliant off-field relationship with the Austrian club has helped them to fend off interest from the likes of Manchester United. The Reds’ interest has been corroborated by The Times’ Paul Joyce and The Athletic’s James Pearce.
Who is Takumi Minamino?
Takumi Minamino – A Star In The Making
Minamino is a 24-year-old Japanese midfielder who currently plays for RB Salzburg. He impressed in both Champions League group games against Liverpool, scoring in the game at Anfield. He has been involved in 20 goals already this season in 22 games. Minamino has scored nine while assisting his teammates for a further 11. He has also reached double figures in terms of goals scored for his club since the 2015/16 season. In particular, he played a key role in Salzburg’s 2017/18 Europa League campaign.
Where Does He Fit at Liverpool?
Minamino can play anywhere across the front three and will help to relieve the pressure on Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino. He offers more natural quality than current back-ups Divock Origi and Xherdan Shaqiri and will be able to push the front three for their place in the team. He can also lead the line in a 4-2-3-1 formation, should Klopp opt to revert to a formation that he has successfully used in the past.
This is a signing that will offer more quality squad depth than Liverpool currently have and will aid them in their quest for silverware. It is rare that Klopp has moved to sign a player in January whilst at Liverpool so this shows the faith the club clearly have in him.
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