17 Nov 2015

Anfield-bound? Liverpool make 'enticing' offer for €30m Argentina playmaker who idolises 'Xabi Alonso'

Despite having five internationals already vying for places in central midfield, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is reportedly pushing hard to sign Lazio captain Lucas Biglia, who recently hinted that a move away is a possible future option.

The Reds have been linked with Biglia many times in the past, and according to Italian newspaper La Gazetta Dello Sport today:

"Liverpool have stepped into the ring with an enticing offer [for Biglia]. Jurgen Klopp already held interest in Biglia during his days with Borussia Dortmund".

When asked recently about his long-term future, Biglia - nicknamed 'El Principito' - confirmed that he's keeping his options open:

"Will I definitely stay? I don't know. It doesn't depend on me".

Some info about Biglia.

* 29-year old defensive midfielder, whose current contract expires in 2018.

* Jurgen Klopp reportedly tried to sign Biglia for Dortmund in 2013.

* Anderlecht: 66 goals/assists in 287 games (Averaged a goal/assist every 378 mins).

* Lazio: 18 goals/assists in 73 apps for Lazio (Averages a goal/assist every 331 mins).

* Lazio reportedly want €30m for Biglia.

* On his admiration for Xabi Alonso: "I like Xabi Alonso. For me, he is what gives balance [to his teams]. He is a role model."

* Sep 2015: Lazio boss Stefano Pioli's assessment: "Biglia is a special player in terms of tactics, technique, and presence. He gives us something extra".

* 9 separate injuries in the last two seasons, including two separate injuries already this season (174 days on the sidelines/32 games missed).

Over the last two season, Biglia has made practically the same number appearances as Lucas Leiva (63 vs. 61) which suggests that in fitness terms, he's not a significant upgrade on the Brazilian.

On the attacking front, however, Biglia is a clear upgrade on Lucas, and a career average of a goal/assist every 4 games is creditable for a defensive midfielder.

With Biglia's suspect injury history, though, I can't see FSG sanctioning anywhere close to €30m for a player who'll be 30 in two months.

For the right price, is Biglia a player worth pursuing?


Author: Jaimie K


0 Comments:

Post a Comment