Expert tips Roberto Firmino to sign ‘big’ deal after Liverpool source’s update
Noel Whelan has suggested Roberto Firmino could leave Liverpool for a “last big payday” despite Jurgen Klopp’s willingness to keep the striker at Anfield.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 31-year-old will also have a better chance of playing “week-in, week-out” if he moves on in the summer window.
Firmino is out of contract at the end of this season and can discuss a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs – but Jurgen Klopp has insisted (as quoted by the Daily Mail, 29 December) he “definitely” wants him to stay.
It is understood that Liverpool have asked the long-serving forward to take a pay cut on his £180,000-a-week in order to stay at the Merseyside giants.
The former Hoffenheim ace has scored nine goals in 21 outings this season amid injuries to Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota.
However, the January arrival of Cody Gakpo could limit Firmino’s minutes as he enters what could be the final months of his Liverpool career.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “He’s getting to the stage where this could be his last big payday.
“I’m sure he’s happy to be at Liverpool, but you’re asking him to take a pay cut.
“He’s been at the club a very long time, and they’re starting to freshen up that front line with younger players now.
“If he wants to keep playing week-in, week-out then he’ll have a better chance if he leaves.
“It’s got to be right for both parties if he is to sign a new contract. He’s got to get the right money, and the right amount of time on the field.”
In other news, pundit fears Liverpool now out of Jude Bellingham race after “big” development.