Sadio Mane looks set to be Jurgen Klopp’s latest recruit, as both Liverpool and Southampton have settled for a £34 million transfer fee (via Sky Sports).
This means that Mane will be Liverpool’s second most expensive transfer fee, behind Andy Carroll (£35m) and ahead of Christian Benteke (£32.5m).
However, the most important question: is the Senegalese man worth it?
In total Mane netted 15 goals in all competitions last season (four of those against the Redmen) and recording nine assists, alongside Daniel Sturridge and Divock Origi, Mane would add more pace and a goal scoring threat to Liverpool’s attack.
Klopp has recognised Mane’s talent since his days at Red Bull Salzburg. He firmly believes that Mane will add much needed pace, energy and aggression to his side’s attacking unit next term (via Daily Mail).
So what’s the problem?
Well critics could argue that it’s Groundhog Day at Anfield, and Liverpool have once again paid too much for a player.
Not to mention that Mane is the fifth Southampton player Liverpool have purchased.
Dejan Lovren, Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert and Nathaniel Clyne have all transferred to Anfield since the summer of 2014. I think the words ‘feeder club’ springs to mind.
Surely if Liverpool want to break into the top four or even challenge for the title, they should be acquiring top class players?
The dilemma
The dilemma is that there isn’t any European football at Anfield next season; therefore it makes the prospect of playing for Liverpool less attractive unfortunately.
Klopp has definitely acknowledged this, hence why the Reds have been linked with more low profile players (Mario Götze does not count by the way).
Many will judge Mane on his transfer fee, rather than what he brings to the club, which is imperative.
There’s only one way to find out if the new boy is worth the money, and that’s not by analysing balance sheets.
Written by Chris Haroun
Follow Chris on Twitter @ChrisHaroun
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