After stalling Liverpool in their ranks on the weekend, the Saints are now eyeing the Liverpool striker, Daniel Sturridge. The Liverpool striker has not been a regular feature under Klopp and the Saints are willing to offer a way out for the former Chelsea and Manchester City striker by taking him on loan in the winter transfer window with an eye on a permanent move in the summer.
According to reports in the British media, Sturridge has grown frustrated with his current situation given his inability to displace Klopp’s favoured trio of Roberto Firmino, Philippe Coutinho and Sadio Mane as his front three.
The striker made a cameo appearance against Southampton and the Saints are ready to take the gamble by offering the 27-year-old the chance to reignite his fading career. The striker is yet to score a goal in the Premier League this season and although current circumstances have been trying, to say the least, there is still hope that the striker will be used in some capacity by Juergen Klopp.
Injuries and Attitude
For a player who is gifted with the natural ability to finish, goals have been hard to come by for the Reds striker this season. Injuries have hampered his progress and after the phenomenal season alongside Luis Suarez where both scored goals for fun, the striker’s career has stalled.
His dalliance with injuries meant that he made only 14 appearances last season in the Premier League, although he scored 8 goals which outlined his efficiency. In fact, he is the fourth fastest Liverpool player to reach the landmark of scoring 50 goals in 87 appearances.
However, his attitude has been called into question by Jurgen Klopp. The German has cited the need for mental toughness and the ability to adapt to the style he expects from his players. Sturridge has also had his say and has stated that he is more effective when he is played in his natural position of a central forward.
Given the war of words, it is no surprise that Southampton are willing to offer £25 million for a permanent move next summer in case the striker ends up at loan in the January transfer window. There are other Premier League clubs interested as well especially the likes of West Ham and Stoke City.
Surprise contenders AC Milan have also apparently thrown their hat in the ring and a move to Italy will make him the natural leader of a youthful Milan side which has been earning plaudits this season.
The final decision though will lie with Klopp. The German is aware that Sadio Mane will be unavailable due the African Nations Cup and Sturridge irrespective of the rumours has shown that he is willing to adapt. Klopp is aware that Sturridge when on song, is one of the most lethal strikers and will look to tap into that unfulfilled potential of the striker.
More Football news, transfer rumours, analysis and features at Sportskeeda.com. Also if you are attending a football game anywhere in the world and/or have a news tip for us drop us an email at football@sportskeed
