liverpool They have performed well this term and look like serious candidates to win the election Premier League at this stage. Arne Slaughter At Christmas, people sit on top of the tree, 39 Call their names and the game in hand.
Of course, their star player this season is Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian star has scored 18 goals and provided 15 assists in 24 games in all competitions. He is very good. Ryan Gravenberch has also excelled this season, taking on a new role as number six. Peter Crouch explains He has been “top class all season” as a deeper midfielder.
To complement the Dutchman, Liverpool are on the lookout for a new midfielder as they continue their title hunt.
Liverpool’s midfield goal
The player in question here is Porto midfielder Nico Gonzalez. The midfielder has had an impressive season in Portugal so far and has now been linked with a move away from the club.
According to “Anfield Observer”Liverpool scouts are “completely amazed” by the 22-year-old midfielder. The report explains that it was thought the Reds were there to see his team-mate Alan Barrera, but Gonzalez attracted attention.
Originally a graduate of Barcelona’s respected La Masia academy, his deal with the La Liga giants had a buy-back clause. The fee is believed to be around £50m, with Liverpool likely to spend a similar sum if they wish to poach him from Porto themselves.
Known as “the great genius” and “the heir to Busquets” Author: Spanish football expert Domagoj Kostanjšakthe Reds will get a crafty player here.
Why Gonzalez would be a good signing
Hearing that Gonzalez is a La Masia graduate is likely to pique Liverpool fans’ interest in the player.
As we all know, the talents cultivated by Barcelona’s youth academy are extraordinary. He also comes from a famous football family. His father Fran Gonzalez is a legend in the sports world of Deportivo. Made 559 appearances for the club In their best years.
Shifting the focus to the 22-year-old, his talent is undeniable and he is enjoying a fantastic season at Porto. He is a versatile midfielder Played 24 timesscored five goals and also provided some assists.
Gonzalez is an energetic player who can play in multiple positions in the midfield. One of his best attributes is his pressing ability. The Spaniard won’t stop running and pressuring opponents, which led to his goal against Arouca earlier this season.
Central midfield is a position Liverpool are looking to strengthen in Slott’s first summer transfer window. They are chasing another Spanish midfielder in the summer, Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi. However, the player decided to stay put, Offer rejected.
Now, the Reds appear to be turning their attention to compatriot Gonzalez. While the Porto players are more versatile and prefer to push forward, they are not all that different statistically, Therefore called “similar players” by FBref in last season’s Champions League.
A numerical comparison can be made from their data from that famous game. First of all, Zubimendi has a slight advantage in tackles and interceptions, averaging 3.16 times per game, while Gonzalez has 2.4 times.
The Real Sociedad man also averages slightly more passes per game, at 5.44, compared to 2.8 for the Porto No.16. However, he also created slightly more chances, averaging 1.6. In comparison, Zubimendi creates 0.63 chances per game.
|
Gonzalez VS Gonzalez Zubimendi 2023/24 UCL key statistics |
||
|---|---|---|
|
State (per 90 people) |
Gonzalez |
Zubimendi |
|
tackles and interceptions |
2.4 |
3.16 |
|
ball recovery |
3.6 |
6.71 |
|
Win the air duel |
2 |
1.77 |
|
progressive pass |
2.8 |
5.44 |
|
Create opportunities |
1.6 |
0.63 |
|
Statistics come from FB reference |
||
Of course, there are similarities between the two players. If the Reds bring in Gonzalez, it would be reminiscent of last summer’s attempt to sign Zubimendi and show their intention to strengthen their midfield.
However, you could argue that this is actually a better deal for the Merseysider due to his versatility. He will give Slott greater tactical flexibility, while Gonzalez excels at the eight position and can also fill in at the six or even the tenth position.
Regardless, at a cost of around £50m, this could be a huge transfer for the Reds. Gonzalez has been described as “a pure pleasure to watch” Author: Football Talent Scout Jacek Kuligand this move could be what Liverpool need to help them cross the finish line in the title race.







