Liverpool could have their work cut out for them this summer if Real Madrid are able to lure superstar Sadio Mane to Spain, here’s some replacements that the Reds should look at.
According to a report from Marca, Liverpool’s Senegalese star is a top target for Real Madrid this summer and Zinedine Zidane is understood to be a very keen admirer of the 26-year-old.
According to another report from Marca, despite Mane’s close relationship with Jurgen Klopp – the star’s head could be turned by the prospect of playing under Zinedine Zidane – the Frenchman is a worldwide football icon.
With Zidane being just 46 years of age – many of today’s stars idolised ‘Zizou’ growing up, so it’s no surprise that they’d want to play under him.
We’ve picked out five replacements that the Reds should target in the summer, if Mane leaves for Los Blancos.
Mane has been in terrific form for the Reds this season, the star has scored 17 goals this season – just one less than top scorer Sergio Aguero.
1. Marco Asensio
According to Sport, Jurgen Klopp will demand Marco Asensio should Madrid come calling for Mane, the report highlights that Klopp is a massive admirer of the attacker and that he even tried to sign the Spaniard last summer.
Whilst Asensio’s form has dipped this season, the Spain international has a massive upside – at just 23 years old, the attacking midfielder has experienced it all and most importantly he’s experienced winning. Liverpool are so close to returning to their former glory under Klopp, the last hurdle that Klopp needs to overcome is quite a big one – winning silverware.
Marco Asensio in action for Real Madrid this season
Reaching finals and finishing second-best just shouldn’t cut it with this Liverpool team and the final piece in overcoming this puzzle could be signing players that are winners. Asensio will no doubt be able to handle the pressure of playing for the Reds, given his experience with Los Blancos.