Takumi Minamino’s time at Anfield has come to an end with the confirmation of his transfer to Monaco. Moreover, it has left fans to express gratitude for his efforts. Minamino will leave the club after spending 2.5 years at the Anfield having joined in January 2020.
Takumi Minamino joins AS Monaco
AS Monaco acquired Minamino from Liverpool For €18 million.
The 27-year-old took a flight back from Japan to finish off a medical this week. And on Tuesday afternoon, the Stade Louis II confirmed his arrival.
Liverpool will be paid a set fee of €15 million with a potential add-on of another €3 million.
Monaco and Minamino have agreed to a four-year contract.
The former Red Bull Salzburg forward has struggled to maintain a berth in the first squad since moving to Anfield in January 2020 for £7.25 million.
Speaking on his move, Minamino said:
“It is a great joy for me to join AS Monaco. I am happy to be part of the club’s project, which has just finished on the podium twice in a row and is one of the most recognized in an exciting championship.”
Minamino has 14 goals in 55 games for Liverpool (Stats via whoscored.com). Although, he spent the second half of the 2020–21 season on loan at Southampton.
Only one of his 11 Premier League outings from last season’s campaign was a start.
However, he had an influence in cup competitions. The only trophies Liverpool won last season were the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup. Moreover, Minamino was the club’s top scorer in both.
Minamino can play anywhere along the forward line. Although he will join a Monaco assault that already boasts Wissam Ben Yedder and Kevin Volland. However, Monaco just lost brilliant midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni to Real Madrid in a €100 million deal.
Klopp also expressed his grief and said:
“It’s hard to see Taki go, but it’s a great move for him and one he thoroughly deserves.
An amazing professional; super, talented player. As a person, he is full of warmth and makes everyone feel positive. A manager’s dream, to be honest.
I’m sure there will be those who think it didn’t quite work out. Those who think this is wrong. I don’t accept that. His contribution far outweighs the opportunities we were able to give, in terms of starting matches.
He made us better each and every day he was with us – not just in the games he played but every single session in training. Perfect attitude, winner’s mentality.”
