Thursday, May 24, 2012

KOP News # 1243

Liverpool Transfer Rumors: Why Michu Is Good Target for Reds

By

Tim Keeney

(Featured Columnist) on May 23, 2012

David Ramos/Getty Images

Liverpool's disappointing season in the EPL means the Reds have to find a way to improve without high-profile transfers. That makes Rayo Vallecano's Michu the perfect target. 

According to The Daily Mail, the 26-year-old Spaniard is considering a switch to the EPL, and Manchester United and Liverpool both reportedly have interest. 

"Manchester United scouts have been watching Michu, 26, and London-based agents DBW have also spoken with several other English clubs, including Liverpool, about him," the Daily Mail reported.

Michu has one year left on his contract, and his transfer fee is reportedly "significantly less than the club's original £8m asking price." 

That's the type of bargain with which Liverpool can get on board. Let's take a look at what else Michu brings and why he's worth the bother.

 

 

Goal-Scoring Ability

In 37 appearances in La Liga this season, Michu netted 15 goals, which was far and away the best for his club.

Where would you rather see Jordan Henderson?

·  Center midfield

94.5%

·  Right midfield

5.5%

Total votes: 329

What Liverpool needs first and foremost is another player upfront capable of putting the ball in the net; the Reds were an anemic 11th in goals scored in the EPL.

Michu, who mostly plays the center midfield position, isn't as good at linking up the midfield and forwards with his passing as Jordan Henderson was, but the Spaniard can actually slot the ball away for goals.

Henderson had a much better passing percentage than Michu, but only scored two goals and had just one assist in 31 appearances. He would be much better served on the outside, with Michu in the middle.

Simply put, Michu would be more effective in the middle of the attack, and that's the area Liverpool needs to spruce up right now. 

 

 

Size

While Michu isn't a great passer, he doesn't have to be. Liverpool creates a lot of their chances from crosses and aerial wins, which Michu is great at.

Sadly, this was the best video I could find. Still, it gives you an idea of his aerial ability

At 6'3" (191 cm), he is an absolute force in the box. He won 4.1 aerial duels per game in 2011-12 and the only Liverpool player who was better was Andy Carroll, who won 4.3.

Not only does Michu improve Liverpool's ability to finish scoring chances, he even further increases their strength of winning headers. 

 

Cost

Is Michu a good target for Liverpool?

·  Yes

75.8%

·  No

24.2%

Total votes: 223

It was mentioned earlier, but Michu's transfer fee will be significantly less than £8 million. For a Liverpool squad needing to find a way to cheaply improve the attack, going after the Spaniard makes a lot of sense. 

He's nothing spectacular, but at 26 years old, he is in prime shape and there is relatively no risk considering the asking price. At the very least, he improves the depth in a much needed area.

For a guy who can score as well as Michu can, the idea of targeting him is at least worth paying attention to. 

 

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