Whelan issues verdict on Liverpool spending big money on Firmino replacement after contract latest
Noel Whelan has claimed Liverpool could hand Roberto Firmino a new contract in order to avoid spending “a lot of money” on a replacement.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 30-year-old can no longer expect to play “all 38 games” in the Premier League.
As reported by Sky Sport Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg on Wednesday (19 January), Firmino is set to hold discussions over his Liverpool future in the coming months.
The Reds will reportedly let the Brazilian decide whether to open contract negotiations – with his relationship with Jurgen Klopp apparently still “perfect”.
Whelan suggested a potential renewal will hinge on Firmino’s desire to “fight for his place” at Anfield.
“I think when you’re looking into the future at Liverpool, Firmino can no longer expect to play all 38 games in the Premier League,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“Liverpool, however, need that option. Can they afford not to keep that continuity and stability of having him as a reliable player?
“He’s been so important for Liverpool. It’ll be down to whether Firmino wants to stay at the club and fight for his place.
“I’m sure this will happen. Liverpool will give him what he wants because they will have to go out and spend a lot of money to bring in a replacement for a player like him.”
Firmino has managed seven goals in 19 games for Liverpool this term.
The forward has been instrumental in Premier League and Champions League triumphs since joining the Merseysiders in 2015.
His contract is set to expire in June 2023.
Fellow forwards Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane also have just 18 months remaining on their Anfield contracts.
In other news, Football Insider can reveal Liverpool are working on a deal to sign London-based star.