Why Liverpool wants to sign Szoboszlai?
Liverpool are reportedly considering the possibility of signing RB Leipzig midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai during the upcoming summer transfer window. It is widely known that Liverpool is keen on strengthening their midfield options before the start of the next season.
According to new information obtained by The Athletic, Liverpool recently had a meeting with the representatives of Szoboszlai, making him the top target among the numerous names linked to the Premier League giants.
At just 22 years old, Dominik Szoboszlai is considered one of the most exceptional young talents in the Bundesliga. He has the skills to both score goals and create opportunities, which never fails to excite fans.
He faced a major setback at the beginning of his Bundesliga career due to a groin injury. This injury kept him out of action for five months towards the end of the 2020-21 season, after he joined RB Leipzig from RB Salzburg in December 2020. Fortunately, he has not experienced any further fitness issues since then. In fact, he has only missed one match due to injury in the last two Bundesliga seasons.
Szoboszlai had a more consistent role as a right-sided winger for RB Leipzig last season, compared to the previous season where he mainly played as a left-winger. His ability to play as a left winger allowed him to utilize his excellent ball-striking skills by cutting in on his preferred right foot. He also had some playing time in central midfield, which added to his versatility. Although he played a some games as a right winger, his ability to play in different midfield positions makes him an appealing prospect for Liverpool.
Szoboszlai recorded the fifth highest expected goals assisted statistic in the Bundesliga, which was significantly higher than any other teammate throughout the season. It may be unexpected for some to discover that the majority of his expected goals assisted total originated from open play last year, despite the attention given to his threat from set-piece situations. This is not to undermine the attention surrounding his set-piece abilities, but rather to highlight his effectiveness in open play as well.
Szoboszlai not only excelled in scoring and setting up opportunities for his teammates, but he also topped the Bundesliga in pre-assists, highlighting his crucial role in RB Leipzig’s offense. This aspect of his game, which may be overlooked by some fans, demonstrates his significance in the team’s shot creation process.
Despite being tall, Szoboszlai is also skilled at carrying the ball. In the Bundesliga last season, only four attacking players made more ball carries or covered more distance while carrying the ball than him. However, he is not someone who frequently tries to take on opponents.
Szoboszlai is also known for his highly work rate, which is advantageous when playing for a team that aims to regain possession in the opponent’s half.
A thorough evaluation of his abilities reveals that he possesses the qualities of a Klopp-style player: industrious, innovative, and capable of scoring goals. If Liverpool manages to secure this signing, there is no doubt that he will be a strong contender for the best signing of the season.
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