Liverpool star could quit after Cody Gakpo picture emerges – pundit
Paul Robinson has claimed Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino has a decision to make following Cody Gakpo’s arrival.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Spurs and England number one suggested Firmino, 31, will see his game time significantly reduced henceforth.
Firmino’s contract at Anfield expires at the end of June.
Football Insider first revealed the Reds are in negotiations with Firmino over a short-term deal, and that has been subsequently confirmed by Klopp.
However, the Brazil international is yet to decide on his future.
On Friday (30 December), new Liverpool signing Cody Gakpo was pictured at Anfield.
Robinson suspects Gakpo’s arrival may lead to Firmino’s exit.
“It is clear that they want him to stay,” he told Football Insider.
“The question is, does he see the arrival of Gakpo as a problem? Does he want to play regularly for the final few years of his career? There is serious competition for the forward positions at Liverpool now that Gakpo has arrived.
“Klopp would obviously like to keep him. Is he at the level he was three years ago? No. He is not essential for Liverpool anymore as much as he is still a brilliant player. He is no longer irreplaceable whereas he was a few seasons ago.
“Gakpo has come in and let’s not forget that they have a lot of quality to come back. Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz won’t be back til February/March it looks like. Firmino is no longer irreplaceable.
“It will probably be a case of take it or leave it. They will be happy if they stays but will not see it as a huge issue if he doesn’t.”
In other news, sources have revealed a star’s father wants his son to join Liverpool next year.