Liverpool could be about to make an even more exciting signing than Antoine Semenyo in January - opinion
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Rousing the Kop or go back to LFC Live.
As the January window begins to approach, Liverpool look badly in need of someone extra.The Reds should have been well prepared for the season’s tribulations having spent more than £400m over the summer.However, Arne Slot has so far struggled to fit his new pieces together, leading to a disjointed and at times terrible start to the campaign for Liverpool.Join our newsletter for news & smart analysis. As supporters debate what is missing from the Liverpool squad, transfer links to Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo have persisted.Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Liverpool’s interest in Semenyo, and fans are getting excited at the prospect of the explosive Ghanaian arriving at Anfield.But as much as Semenyo may be a good addition, it is arguable whether he is a necessary one.
And after links to AZ Alkmaar wonderkid Kees Smit appeared on Sunday, it seems the Reds may be about to do that.Photo by Ed van de Pol/BSR Agency/Getty ImagesKees Smit is a more exciting target than Antoine SemenyoAs he is an attacking player with goal-scoring capability, it makes sense that fans would be clamouring to see Semenyo at Anfield.However, it is tricky to get overly excited about a player who – with the greatest of respect – was playing for Bristol City less than three years ago.READ MORE: Alessandro Bastoni must be the man to take over from Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool – and here’s whySince then Semenyo has taken big strides, but he is not a player who will move the dial at Liverpool. Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images Gravenberch’s form has been up and down recently, and having a player like Smit to take the heat off him in certain games could preserve his best for later in the season.In time, the Dutchman could also grow to become a regular starter in Liverpool’s midfield.
Having made 50 appearances for AZ already, Smit clearly has the potential to do that.So, while Semenyo could add a little extra oomoh to Liverpool’s attack, the Reds’ long-term goals would feel like they’ve got a little closer with Smit in the side.Smit is the ideal new midfielder for LiverpoolSome supporters may argue that Liverpool are well-stocked in midfield and do not need to add another player who will not be starting on a regular basis.However, Slot’s overuse of Gravenberch shows that he clearly does not trust any of his players to do what the 23-year-old does. But Slot likes to have two players for every position, and they are currently one short.Stefan Bajcetic could return to have an impact this season, but the Spaniard’s injury troubles make him something of a gamble.Smit would not be hugely expensive for Liverpool, and as he is still yet to turn 20, he would surely be happy with a role of playing understudy to his countryman Gravenberch.In short, Smit ticks just about every box for what the Reds need right now.