Liverpool have “intensified their interest” in Norwich City midfielder Todd Cantwell, according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein. The report says that the Reds were impressed by the young midfielder after seeing his Premier League debut at Anfield. Other interested clubs include Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.
Liverpool Interested in Todd Cantwell
A Rising English Star
While Norwich have struggled this season, Cantwell has been excellent. He has scored six times and recorded two assists in 26 Premier League appearances. Only Finnish striker Teemu Pukki has more goals and assists this season for the Canaries.
One of Cantwell’s goals will stick in the mind of Liverpool supporters. The young man scored against Manchester City as Norwich stunned the champions in a 3-2 win earlier this season. This is further proof of his ability to produce against the best sides.
The only thing that Cantwell has yet to prove is if he could continue to impress while playing in Europe. However, if his transition to the Premier League is anything to go by, then the Reds have nothing to worry about.
Another aspect that is likely attractive to manager Jurgen Klopp is Cantwell’s versatility. While he has starred on the left-side of midfield, he can be effective in every attacking position.
Klopp got another chance to see the midfielder close up as the Reds beat Norwich 1-0 on Saturday. Cantwell was impressive in the defeat as he made two key passes and succeded in the majority of his dribbles.
In addition, Klopp would have been happy to see the midfielder’s tenacity. Cantwell won ten of the 14 ground duels that he contested. This fits in well with the German’s high-pressing style.
And according to Ornstein, Cantwell’s display “impressed members of the [Liverpool] playing and coaching staff” despite the Canaries’ loss.
On his end, Norwich manager Daniel Farke has insisted that Cantwell should stay at Norwich for at least a few more years. However, it’s hard to see that happening if they are relegated.
Place at Anfield?
Cantwell would fit in very well at Anfield. First, Liverpool are going to need midfielders next season.
Adam Lallana is expected to leave the club while Naby Keita has been injury-prone his entire Liverpool career.
In addition, James Milner is getting older and while he has signed a new two-year contract, it’s impossible to guarantee that he will maintain his form as he ages. Finally, Takumi Minamino has yet to make an impact at Anfield since his January move from RB Salzburg as he continues to adapt to life in England.
Also, Cantwell would also help Liverpool maintain their homegrown quota as required by the Premier League. While the Reds do have several key players who are British, it never hurts to add one more.
All in all, Liverpool can also expect to get the Norwich man for a good price due to the club’s impending relegation. The Canneries are bottom of the table and seven points off safety.
Farke has even admitted that it will take a “miracle” for his side to stay in the league.
All this means is that if Liverpool really want Todd Cantwell, then there’s not much standing in their way.
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