Report: Liverpool Prepare £84m Bid for Attacker as Transfer Battle Looms | OneFootball

Liverpool’s £84m Pursuit of Ousmane Dembélé: A Smart Move or a Risk?

Liverpool are reportedly planning a massive €100 million (£84m) bid for Paris Saint-Germain winger Ousmane Dembélé this summer. As Fichajes reports, Fenway Sports Group (FSG) sees the Frenchman as an ideal fit for Arne Slot’s system, with his pace, dribbling ability, and attacking versatility making him a strong candidate to bolster Liverpool’s frontline. However, PSG are reluctant to sell, and negotiations could prove difficult.

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Why Liverpool Want Dembélé

FSG’s desire to strengthen the squad stems from their ambition to sustain their dominance in the Premier League while remaining competitive in Europe. Despite a strong domestic campaign under Slot, Liverpool’s Champions League Round of 16 exit against PSG has highlighted areas in need of reinforcement.

Dembélé’s performance in that tie reportedly solidified Liverpool’s interest. According to Fuchajes.net, he was a “threat throughout” the second leg and caused the Liverpool defence constant problems. With Lionel Messi once describing Dembélé’s speed as “frightening in training,” the Frenchman’s pace and technical ability could add a new dimension to Liverpool’s attack.

PSG’s Stance on a Potential Sale

PSG are understandably hesitant to part ways with Dembélé. The former Barcelona forward has enjoyed a strong season and is one of Luis Enrique’s most trusted players. As Fuchajes.net highlights, the Ligue 1 champions will demand more than Liverpool’s reported £84 million bid.

This means negotixations could be drawn out, especially considering Dembélé’s importance to PSG’s tactical setup. Liverpool will need to be prepared to either increase their offer or look elsewhere if PSG remains firm on their valuation.

Could Dembélé Be the Perfect Replacement for Salah or Núñez?

With Mohamed Salah’s contract set to expire at the end of the season and speculation surrounding Darwin Núñez’s future, Liverpool’s attacking options may need urgent reinforcement.

Dembélé’s ability to operate on both wings and as a central forward makes him a versatile option who could help replace either player. As Fuchajes.net notes, Liverpool “values his dribbling ability, speed, and goal-scoring effectiveness.” If Salah leaves, Dembélé could slot into his right-wing position, while also offering an alternative in the centre if needed.

However, concerns remain about his consistency and injury record. Despite his undoubted talent, Dembélé has struggled with fitness issues throughout his career. Liverpool would need assurances that he could maintain form and fitness across a gruelling Premier League season.

Our View – AnfieldIndex Analysis

Dembélé’s potential arrival is an exciting but divisive prospect. On one hand, his pace and dribbling skills could revitalise the attack, offering unpredictability that could unsettle Premier League defences. His Champions League display against Liverpool proved he can thrive on the big stage.

However, concerns about his reliability cannot be ignored. Injury issues have plagued his career, and investing £84 million in a player with a questionable fitness record carries a significant risk. While his talent is undeniable, Liverpool fans may question whether the club should prioritise a more durable option, especially if Salah departs.

Additionally, PSG’s reluctance to sell could make this deal difficult to pull off. If Liverpool are forced into an extended transfer battle or a higher bid, they may need to consider whether better value lies elsewhere in the market.

Ultimately, Dembélé’s signing would bring excitement and quality, but whether he is the right long-term investment for Liverpool remains a question that only time—and possibly his medical history—can answer.