Report: Liverpool Hold ‘Keen Interest’ in Signing €80m Midfielder | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Pursuit of Orkun Kökçü: A Strategic Move or a High-Risk Gamble?

The summer transfer window of 2024 has been a period of fervent debate among Liverpool fans and pundits alike. The club, under the stewardship of new manager Arne Slot, has made headlines with its high-profile signings and notable omissions. Among these, the acquisition of Federico Chiesa from Juventus and goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia have sparked interest and scrutiny. While Chiesa’s addition bolsters Liverpool’s attacking options, Mamardashvili’s year-long stay back at Valencia raises questions about the immediate impact of these moves.

Despite the buzz around these signings, a lingering sentiment of underachievement shadows Anfield. Critics point out the club’s apparent lack of urgency in addressing crucial midfield gaps, especially in the defensive realm. The club’s failure to secure Martin Zubimendi has left many supporters feeling disillusioned, as noted by Sport Witness. In this climate, the reported interest in Benfica’s midfielder Orkun Kökçü, as per Portuguese outlet Record, adds another layer to Liverpool’s complex transfer narrative.

Photo: IMAGO

Kökçü’s Potential Impact at Anfield

Orkun Kökçü, once under Slot’s wing at Feyenoord, has been flourishing at Benfica, evidenced by his standout performance in their Champions League victory over Atlético Madrid. Liverpool’s keen interest in him suggests a strategic move to reunite the player with Slot, potentially reigniting the midfielder’s peak form. Sport Witness highlights that while Benfica’s asking price of €80 million seems steep, the club might be open to negotiations, especially considering they acquired him for a record €30 million plus bonuses just a year ago.

Kökçü’s versatility in midfield is undoubted. He has shown commendable skill in both creating and finishing chances, which would provide Liverpool with additional depth and tactical flexibility. However, his defensive contributions—or lack thereof—could be a point of contention, given Liverpool’s existing midfield options like Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, and Elliott, who occupy similar roles.

Financial Implications and Market Dynamics

The financial aspect of this potential transfer cannot be overlooked. Kökçü’s €150 million release clause, while a testament to his value and potential, sets a high bar. The reported willingness of Benfica to accept around €80 million reflects the current inflation in the transfer market but also presents a risky investment for Liverpool. It raises the question: is Kökçü the missing piece in Liverpool’s puzzle, or a luxury they cannot afford?

Long-Term Vision vs. Immediate Needs

Liverpool’s strategy seems to be a blend of immediate impact signings and long-term prospects. However, the balance between these can often dictate the success of a transfer window. Kökçü offers a promising profile that could thrive under Slot’s guidance, but integrating him into a squad with established midfielders will be a challenge. His ability to adapt to the Premier League and justify his hefty price tag will be crucial for both his and Liverpool’s success.

Statistical Analysis by Anfield Index: Orkun Kökçü’s Impressive Midfield Mastery

Unpacking Kökçü’s Attacking and Playmaking Skills

Orkun Kökçü’s performance data from the past 365 days, sourced from Fbref, showcases a midfielder who not only excels in the creative aspects of the game but is also a standout performer compared to his peers. His stats in non-penalty goals (npG) and expected assists (xAG) place him in the 98th and 99th percentiles respectively among midfielders. This highlights Kökçü’s knack for finding the back of the net and setting up scoring opportunities, making him a dual threat in attacking scenarios.

Kökçü in Possession: A Key Contributor

The chart vividly illustrates Kökçü’s prowess in maintaining and distributing the ball. With a 97th percentile in shot-creating actions and a pass completion rate in the 90th percentile, he proves to be crucial in building play and sustaining pressure on the opposition. His ability to execute progressive passes (96th percentile) and carries (91st percentile) further underlines his role as a dynamic force in midfield, capable of pushing the ball forward and keeping the attacking momentum going.

Defensive Duties and Overall Impact

While primarily known for his offensive contributions, Kökçü does not shy away from defensive responsibilities, though it’s clear this isn’t his primary strength. His lower percentiles in blocks and clearances suggest a more forward-thinking role. However, his considerable involvement in successful take-ons and high number of touches (88th and 89th percentiles) indicate a well-rounded midfielder who is actively engaged in all phases of play.

In conclusion, Orkun Kökçü’s stats paint a picture of a highly effective midfielder whose contributions are vital to his team’s success. His ability to influence the game in both attacking and possession phases makes him a valuable asset, and his performance data from Fbref provides a compelling case for any top club seeking a versatile and impactful midfielder.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, the interest in Orkun Kökçü might feel like another high-stakes gamble in a transfer strategy that already seems disjointed. While his technical abilities and versatility are attractive, one cannot help but question the wisdom of investing a significant portion of the transfer budget on a player who predominantly shines in attacking roles—a department where Liverpool is already well-stocked.

Given the pressing need for a robust defensive midfielder, the club’s focus on Kökçü could be seen as a misalignment of priorities. Arne Slot’s fondness for the player is understandable, yet nostalgia and past affiliations should not cloud the judgment of what the team needs most urgently. Moreover, the notion of spending close to €80 million on a player who might not address the most critical gaps in the squad could be a tough pill to swallow for many fans.

In conclusion, while Kökçü’s arrival at Anfield might excite on a theoretical level, practical concerns about squad balance, financial prudence, and immediate on-field impact must be addressed. As Liverpool navigates this complex transfer saga, the outcome will likely resonate far beyond the current season, shaping the club’s trajectory under Slot’s management.