Liverpool and West Ham United will go head-to-head in a bid to sign Flamengo striker Gabriel Barbosa this summer. The forward is a menace in front of the goal, scoring 100 goals in 151 games.
Liverpool desperately need attacking reinforcements after Sadio Mane announced his decision to leave. Mohammed Salah’s future is surrounded by uncertainty. This makes a move for the Brazilian even more pressing.
West Ham, on the other hand, need competition up front for Michael Antonio. The Jamaican was in scintillating form at the beginning of the season, but his form dropped off towards the end. A lack of rest is attributed to this downturn. David Moyes will be looking at players who can slot in for Antonio without compromising on quality, and without needing to shoehorn players like Jarrod Bowen into unnatural positions.
West Ham may be at an obvious disadvantage here, considering Liverpool’s massive pull and worldwide appeal. But at the same time, West Ham can provide Barbosa with an easier route to regular first-team action. The forward has indicated his love for the Reds in an old interview, where he complimented fellow Brazilian Roberto Firmino.
Firmino is great, I really admire him. He’s been successful for many years in Europe. He is a powerful forward and he has been great for Brazil. He is an inspiration that I look up to. It would be a pleasure to play with him. Maybe we could team up for Brazil in the future and Liverpool is a team that everyone wants to play for
Gabriel Barbosa, as quoted by the Daily Mail
Tough Decision For Barbosa
It is clear that both the teams need someone like Barbosa. Liverpool would undoubtedly be a more attractive option. But Barbosa is likely to get more minutes at the London Stadium. Either way, it remains to be seen what the Brazilian decides. A talent like him in Europe will be a treat to see.
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