Liverpool to forgo mega-money windfall as Roberto Firmino plan revealed – pundit
Noel Whelan has claimed Liverpool won’t be tempted to cash in on Roberto Firmino as his contract continues to run down.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the Brazil international will still be a valuable option for Jurgen Klopp despite the arrival of Darwin Nunez.
According to Metro (18 July), Firmino is yet to enter discussions over a new deal despite having less than 12 months remaining on his current contract.
The report claims the 30-year-old is expected to leave Liverpool on a free transfer in the summer of 2023.
Firmino made just 10 starts in the Premier League last season amid 35 appearances across all competitions.
Whelan insisted Liverpool won’t force the issue if the “fantastic servant” wishes to see out his Anfield contract.
“He’s one of these players who is great to have around at a football club,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“If he’s got it in his mind that he wants to stay one more year, I don’t think Liverpool will begrudge him that.
“He’s been a fantastic servant to the football club, there’s never any grumbling or issues with him. He’s very professional.
“What an option to have for Liverpool. If he wants to leave next summer, then I’m sure all parties will be more than happy with that.
“If it’s a free transfer then he gets a wage which will set him up for life.
“So no, I can’t see Liverpool cashing in.
“They’ll benefit from having a top-class attacker, and they’ll be able to give him the send-off he deserves next summer.”
In other news, Kieran Maguire backs Liverpool to join the “£100m club” as new footage emerges.