No Liverpool fan could’ve envisaged the impact midfielder Philippe Coutinho would have at Anfield after the Brazilian star completed his £8.5m move from Inter Milan back in 2013.
However, he wasted no time in making himself a fan favourite on Merseyside, with his direct dribbling and ball-striking ability catching the eye throughout his five years at the club.
The now-32-year-old made a total of 201 appearances for the Reds, registering 54 goals and 44 assists, averaging a goal contribution every 2.1 matches he appeared in.
Former Liverpool player Philippe Coutinho.
Such form would see the talent depart in a staggering £146m deal to join Spanish side Barcelona, a move that would ruin his career, now featuring for Vasco de Gama in Brazil after years of struggles.
However, this summer, Arne Slot has the opportunity to land his own version of the attacking star, looking to take advantage of his situation at his current employers.
The latest on Liverpool’s hunt for new attackers
With the summer transfer window just around the corner, Liverpool have already wasted no time in pursuing targets who would add to the talent already at Anfield.
The likes of Victor Osimhen, Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko have all been touted with a switch to Merseyside over the last couple of months to add depth to the forward line.
Newcastle United's Alexander Isak celebrates scoring their first goal
They’re not the only ones who’ve been on their radar, with Real Madrid star Rodrygo the latest player they’re in the running for, according to Sports Zone.
They claim that the Brazilian’s representatives have already been in talks with Slot’s side over a potential switch to Anfield after refusing to come off the bench in the El Clásico last weekend.
It also confirms that he could be a viable option to add depth to the side, with previous reports claiming that the 24-year-old could be available for a fee in the region of £85m this summer.
Described as "world-class superstar," by Luka Modrić, it's safe to say this would be an exciting signing.
Why Liverpool’s £85m target could be Slot’s own Coutinho
Liverpool’s attack has massively catapulted them to the Premier League title in 2024/25, registering 83 goals in their 36 outings - the highest in the division, at an average of 2.3 goals per game.
Liverpool-Salah
Mohamed Salah has been the shining light in forward areas, registering 28 goals and 18 assists in his 36 appearances - the highest combined tally of any player in the league, showcasing the threat he’s posed.
The Egyptian penned a new two-year contract at Anfield last month, extending his stay at the club to over a decade, with such a deal undoubtedly the best deal the Reds could conduct this summer.
However, if the side are to continue their excellent form in the league next campaign, further reinforcements are needed to help take the weight off the 32-year-old’s shoulders.
A deal for Rodrygo would be an excellent one, handing the side the added reinforcements they need and allowing the manager to have another version of Coutinho.
rodrygo-real-madrid
The Real Madrid star, who’s been labelled “incredible” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has managed to register six goals and five assists in LaLiga this campaign - starting in just 22 matches to date.
He could prove to be their next Coutinho, following suit of the midfielder by joining from a European outfit after rapidly falling down the pecking order before his switch.
Real Madrid players with the most goals & assists in LaLiga (2024/25)
Player
Kylian Mbappé
Vinícius Júnior
Jude Bellingham
Rodrygo
Federico Valverde
Arda Güler
Brahim Díaz
Luka Modrić
Lucas Vázquez
Stats via FotMob
The pair, who are both Brazilian, also have the ability to feature in the number 10 role or even in any of the three forward roles - handing Slot needed versatility and quality in the final third.
Rodrygo’s tally of 2.3 successful dribbles and 2.3 chances created per 90 highlights his ability to create added opportunities in attacking areas, just as the dazzling Coutinho did at Anfield.
He’s also registered 2.5 shots per 90, with one of which per game getting on target, with his record potentially seeing him further the club’s already impressive goalscoring record.
£85m would be a huge investment from the board, but it could allow for added success given the talent that he would add to the first team setup.
rodrygo-real-madrid-champions-league
If he manages to get anywhere near the levels produced by Coutinho at Anfield, it would be a deal worth every penny - aiding Slot in his quest of bringing further glory to the Reds in the years ahead.
Liverpool-Salah-Slot Related
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Liverpool are ready to begin their summer shopping spree.