Glen Johnson Pleas For Jurgen Klopp To Sign Raphinha
Ex-England International Glen Johnson has urged former club Liverpool to make a move for Leeds United attacker Raphinha in the January transfer window.
The former Reds full-back identified the Brazilian as an attainable target for Jurgen Klopp and claimed he would be the perfect candidate to provide back-up for forward duo Mo Salah and Sadio Mane, who are both set to jet off to take part in the African Cup of Nations.
“No disrespect to Takumi Minamino and Divock Origi, they’re not Mane and Salah,” Johnson told BoyleSports.
“They’re good impact players, certainly Origi, but I don’t think he’s at their level. Liverpool will be looking to buy someone, not just for the games Salah and Mane will miss, but even for next season.
“I like Raphinha, he’s a good player, he’s very intelligent, he’s good on the ball. He’s got a bit of Riyad Mahrez about him, the way he glides around. He could be a good impact player for them. He’s a realistic target.
No disrespect to Leeds, but the player is going to want to go to a top team.
“Leeds are struggling and could want to take the money. There are other players out there, but sometimes it’s too difficult to get them out of their clubs. With Raphinha, it’s a real, serious opportunity.”
Johnson also backed another of his former clubs to delve into the January transfer market as Chelsea seek to bolster their defensive options after Ben Chilwell was ruled out for the season by boss Thomas Tuchel.
“Lucas Digne would be a good signing, he’s a good player,” Johnson added.
“For whatever reason he’s not playing under Rafa Benitez at the moment. He’s another realistic target. I’m sure he’d bite your arm off at the opportunity. He’s not playing as much as he’d like, so that would be a good signing and he can play both sides as well.
“Everton are a good side and they’ve got a decent squad, but Digne is one of their better players. Rafa has clearly seen something and he prefers the other options. But I am surprised he’s not playing as much.”
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