Last week it was reported that Italian giant AC Milan was showing interest in Belgian forward Divock Origi. Now, however, the deal looks as realistic as ever with Milan in need of a striker.
Liverpool are not planning on offering the striker a contract extension, according to Fabrizio Romano. This allows Origi to be acquired on a free transfer. It is also said that Origi wants a new challenge. This isn’t necessarily a surprise, as Liverpool’s star-studded attack makes time on the pitch hard to come by.
Romano mentions that Milan is very confident in sealing the deal and signing Origi. Milan is in talks with the player’s agents and details are to be discussed in the coming days.
Belgian Forward Divock Origi Inching Closer to AC Milan
The Striker Need
Milan sits first in the Serie A table with a very realistic chance of winning their first Scudetto since 2011. The team is well-balanced overall, but they haven’t excelled in the striking department. As a matter of fact, Milan’s top goal scorers in Serie A are Rafael Leao, Olivier Giroud, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. All just have eight goals. The lead scorer in Serie A is Ciro Immobile of Lazio with 21 goals, so the difference in striking quality from Milan compared to other teams is evident.
Giroud and Ibrahimovic are excellent players. The issue, however, is their age. Both players are closer to retirement than they are to their primes. Giroud is 35-years-old and Ibrahimovic is 40-years-old. The Swede also struggles with injury at his advanced age. In addition, Ibrahimovic’s contract expires this summer. Retirement is very much a possibility. Due to this, Milan needs help up-front.
Origi does not hold an elite track record of goal scoring to his name at Liverpool. This season he has two goals in five Premier League appearances. In the Champions League, Origi holds one goal and one assist to his name in five appearances. Origi is 26-years-old. His prime years are only just beginning. Regular playing time alongside a budding star in Leao is a recipe for success.
It’s worth mentioning that the 2022 World Cup is just months away. Origi will be playing with extreme motivation to make Belgium’s squad. It’s no sure thing as Romelu Lukaku is still a force. Milan gives Origi a very large stage to showcase his talents.
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