Liverpool and Real Madrid continue to be linked with the same transfer storiesplaceholder image
Liverpool and Real Madrid continue to be linked with the same transfer stories | Getty Images
A potential player transfer swap deal that would see both Liverpool and Real Madrid benefit
Former Spain and Barcelona midfielder Gaizka Mendieta has suggested an almost outrageous player-swap deal involving Liverpool and Real Madrid, that could actually see both clubs benefit from the situation.
Liverpool are currently struggling to keep their heads above water as their season continues to plummet to new lows. A lot of questions are being asked of the Reds right now but it doesn’t seem they have the answers to give.
The Premier League champions are expected to further bolster their ranks in the new year, once the January window opens. However, their business must be immaculate, or they risk further digging themselves into the hole they have created in recent weeks.
Florian Wirtz to Real Madrid in player-swap deal proposed
“Florian Wirtz and Vinicius Junior in a swap deal. Why not? Honestly, why not?” he asked, via the Mirror. “I see more obviously of Florian Wirtz at Real Madrid than Vinicius Junior at Liverpool right now, but I think a swap deal could suit them.
Medieta’s main argument is that Wirtz previously played under current Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso. The German playmaker is currently in a huge creative rut and is still yet to find his first Premier League goal or assist. It’s a stark difference from the Wirtz who was tearing apart the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen week in, week out.
When Alonso spearheaded the Black and Reds to the league title in the 2023/24 season, Wirtz contributed 18 goals and 20 assists in all competitions. His efforts for Liverpool look a shadow of what he is capable of.
While Madrid likely wouldn’t be in a rush to sign him based on his performances for Liverpool, Alonso is well aware of his pedigree, and would benefit from his ability at Madrid. The ex-Anfield midfielder could bring out the best in Wirtz once again.
Liverpool can target Real Madrid star
Mendieta’s argument is for Vinicius Jr to be included in this potential swap deal, but Liverpool would surely benefit more from suggesting Rodrygo be the man who heads in the opposite direction instead.
The Reds have been admirers of the Brazilian for a long time now and several reports over the years have suggested he could be a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah. Liverpool need to be considering that kind of signing more than ever at this point, with the Egyptian enduring what could end up being his worst season in red.
Salah’s contract expires in 2027 and there have even been reports that Liverpool might sell him before that time comes, based on how much his performances have dipped this season. Before they make any decision, the Reds must ensure they have a suitable replacement lined up to fill in at right-wing and Rodyrgo has been mentioned many times in recent years.
The 24-year-old is no longer a regular starter for Los Blancos and while contrasting reports continue to put each other out of balance, recent claims suggest he is now looking to move on from the Bernabeu in search of a more secure role.
Should he entertain the idea of signing for Liverpool, those at Anfield would make him the first choice option at right-wing. The Reds have shown interest in him for a long time now and his ability to score, assist and play versatile roles make him a similar figure to Salah.
Even if this hypothetical swap deal came to fruition in January, it’s likely Liverpool would give Rodrygo the nod ahead of Salah. Right now, the Reds cannot afford to rely on players who aren’t making things happen. This would be the perfect opportunity for Rodrygo to arrive and stake his claim as the new starting right-winger at Anfield - starting as things mean to go on, once Salah’s iconic era on Merseyside eventually closes.
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