Image Credits: Imago Images
Premier League champions Liverpool returned to winning ways with an emphatic 6-0 Champions League victory over Qarabag at Anfield on Wednesday night.
Alexis Mac Allister scored twice, with Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Mohamed Salah – his first goal since November 1 and Federico Chiesa also on the scoresheet as the Reds finished third in the table and avoided the play-off round.
The result was tempered by an early injury to Jeremie Frimpong, who was forced off inside five minutes with a suspected muscle problem. With defensive options already limited, Arne Slot was forced to deploy Wataru Endo at right-back for the remainder of the match.
Liverpool have been relatively quiet in the January transfer window, though recent injuries could prompt a rethink in the coming days. The club continue to be linked with Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano and Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet.
Liverpool forward Keyrol Figueroa is attracting interest from FC Porto during the winter transfer window. The 19-year-old, son of former Wigan and Hull City defender Maynor Figueroa, has impressed for the Reds’ academy this season, scoring 11 goals in 16 appearances.
Speaking after the Leeds victory, under-21s head coach Rob Page said via the club’s website: “I’ve got a lot of time for Figgy. He’s (Figueroa) a great lad to work with, he takes on board what you ask of him and when the ball comes into the box, there is a strong chance that he will be on the end of it. I’m really pleased for him – he deserves it. He works hard during the week and I think he’s now the top scorer in the division.”
Figueroa has yet to make his first-team debut but was an unused substitute in Liverpool’s 3-0 Carabao Cup defeat to Crystal Palace. According to La Prensa, his contract expires in June, with Liverpool keen to renew terms and retain control of his future.
Porto are not alone in their interest, with MLS sides including Red Bulls and Charlotte FC also making enquiries. However, Figueroa is understood to favour continuing his development in Europe. Spanish club Elche have now joined the race as negotiations with Liverpool continue.
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