Trying times await the Reds as their two star attackers will depart to Cameroon next month for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Liverpool should consider a striker of Raul Jimenez’s caliber in the January transfer window, says Paul Merson.
Jurgen Klopp’s side will lose star forwards Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane in January. The duo will instead represent Egypt and Senegal respectively in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The biennial competition takes place in Cameroon on January 9 and lasts almost a full month until February 6.
Therefore, in light of Liverpool’s growing predicament, Merson has highlighted Wolves frontman Jimenez as an ideal January signing – both short and long-term.
What did Merson say?
“Liverpool need to sign a center-forward like Raul Jimenez in January – and not just as cover for the African Nations Cup either,” the former Arsenal midfielder wrote in his Daily Star column.
“They need someone to come in while Sadio Mane and Mo Salah are away, yes. But I think they need someone for the future too.
“They need a player who can put pressure on the front three and help them win league titles consistently for the next few years.
“It’s no good coming second for the next five years. Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino are very good players but I still think they need a proper center-forward and if they brought in Jimenez, he would play.”
Merson added: “I think he ticks the boxes. I think it’s a nice signing. He would come in and not kick up a stink if he isn’t playing every week. That’s what they need.”
Who are Liverpool’s reported targets?
Recent reports have suggested 
FC Porto striker Luis Diaz and Lille forward Jonathan David as possible January targets for Liverpool.
However, the Reds are not short of manpower by any means. They have several attacking alternatives, including Belgian frontman Divock Origi and the ever-prolific Diogo Jota.
Klopp’s men are scheduled to return to action next Tuesday away to Leicester City in the Premier League.
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