Reports from Turkish outlet Sportcell suggest that Liverpool’s Brazilian forward Roberto Firmino is likely to head to the Turkish Süper Lig and join Galatasaray next season, as he leaves Anfield upon the expiration of his contract.
Roberto Firmino will bid goodbye to the Reds
Firmino, who has been a crucial part of Jürgen Klopp’s era at Liverpool, has expressed his desire to play regularly and is reportedly happy with the progress made by Galatasaray in their efforts to sign him.
Although an agreement in principle has been reached with Firmino, the terms of the contract are still being negotiated, indicating that the 31-year-old forward wants to be remunerated adequately for his move.
Firmino’s departure from Liverpool comes as a mutual agreement between the player and the club, with game time being a key factor in his decision.
Asked about Firmino’s future at Friday’s pre-match press conference, Klopp told reporters:
“There’s no time for a goodbye or whatever in this moment, there’s enough time for that later in the season.
Whenever he will come back, everybody knows that the song will still be for a long, long time in everybody’s ears I’m pretty sure.“
He continued,
“No problem. I think he’s one of these players that even when he would come with an opposition team, people would be really happy to see him.”
This is reminiscent of Divock Origi’s move from Liverpool to Milan last summer in search of more playing opportunities.
Bobby Firmino – The Anfield legend
Firmino initially joined Liverpool as an attacking midfielder in 2015 but has predominantly played as a number nine under Klopp, scoring 107 goals in 353 appearances and winning five major trophies with the club.
Galatasaray, a 22-time Turkish champion are known for providing shelter to football stars in their twilight years or with declining careers.
They have been aggressive in their recruitment campaigns in recent transfer windows, signing players like Juan Mata, Mauro Icardi, Dries Mertens, and Nicolo Zaniolo.
Firmino’s potential move to Galatasaray could be a significant addition to their squad and bolster their title aspirations in the Turkish Super Lig.
Despite Firmino’s decline in the pecking order at Liverpool this season, he is still regarded as a world-class player and could make a difference in Turkey’s top flight.
Klopp has expressed his desire to keep Firmino at Liverpool, but negotiations for a new contract have not yet reached a resolution.
As Firmino’s contract expiration date approaches, all eyes will be on his next destination and the potential impact he could make at Galatasaray.