29 Mar 2016

Transfer Boost: 'Amazing' £15m attacker confirms he wants to 'play alongside Coutinho'. Sign?

On Monday, Liverpool target Piotr Zielinski confirmed that he's interested in a 'big transfer' to Anfield this summer, and it appears that he's also a huge fan of one of the Reds' most exciting players.

When specifically asked on Sunday about the Liverpool rumours, Zielinski - hailed as 'amazing' by former boss Francesco Guidolin - told Futbolfejs:

"Some people may think it [the Liverpool move] is only rumours but I know more about it. I am working hard so I have a chance to make such a big transfer."

£15m-rated Zielinski also hailed Coutinho as 'very technically gifted', and described the Brazilian as one of Liverpool's 'best players'. He further enthused:

“I like his style of play, and I watch him closely. It would be great to play alongside Coutinho. We could be a good duo on the pitch”.

Zielinski also claimed to have 'something in common' with Coutinho, and his style of play suggests that's true:

* Central midfielder, who can also play as a right-winger, an attacking-midfielder.

* Scouting report from Four Four Two magazine: "Plays on the right of a diamond midfield [at Empoli]. Voracious work ethic and enthusiasm. Plenty of technical and attacking qualities. Does not eschew defensive tasks. With his driving runs, slick passes and discipline, Zielinksi could suit Klopp’s gegenpressing philosophy".

* This season: Averages 1.6 key passes per game in the league, which is the same as Coutinho. Averages for dribbles per game than Coutinho (2.7 vs. 1.8), and has slightly higher passing accuracy (80% vs. 78%).

With 14 goals/assists in 32 apps (one every 173 mins), Coutinho is ahead of Zielinski in the end product stakes, with the Pole on 8 goals/assists in 29 apps so far (One every 312 mins).

That's a significant difference, and given the increased speed and physicality of the Premier League, Zielinski - if he signs - is going to have improve exponentially in the final third to have 'something in common' with Coutinho.

Author: Jaimie K


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