Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino is set to leave Anfield in the summer when his current contract expires. The Brazilian has spent eight successful years with the Reds and has been free to speak to clubs about a pre-contract agreement outside of England since the start of 2023.
The Liverpool Echo understand that Firmino has now decided to seek a fresh challenge and will walk away after a decorated spell that has seen him win seven trophies that include every top-level trophy available to Liverpool. It is unclear yet as to where the Brazilian forward will be playing next season, but his choice to leave Anfield represents a perfect chance for one of Arsenal, Chelsea or Tottenham to sign him on a free transfer.
The 31-year-old has played more games than any other player under Jurgen Klopp in his 1000-game managerial career, playing over 350 matches for Liverpool, highlighting the importance of the Brazilian in the team. Firmino's ability to press from the front and link play in a false nine role could prove to be a crucial asset for any team and the three London clubs should be looking at making a move for him this summer.
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Arsenal have a strong Brazilian core in Mikel Arteta's squad already and with Firmino's experience in winning major honours and playing in the Premier League, he could prove to be a smart signing for the north Londoners. The Gunners have Gabriel Jesus, Eddie Nketiah and the returning Folarin Balogun to select from in the striker role heading into next season, but Firmino's arrival could be similar to that of Jorginho - adding experience, leadership and depth in a key area - especially given Jesus' long-term injury this season.
Chelsea have struggled in attack this term and have struggled to link the forward line to the rest of the team. The 31-year-old could bridge that gap and help stabilise Graham Potter's team in transition, whilst adding a goal threat and creativity in attack.
Joao Felix will return to Atletico Madrid in the summer once his loan deal ends, unless Todd Boehly wants to pay an astronomical fee to secure his services on a permanent basis. Christopher Nkunku looks set to sign for the Blues from RB Leipzig this summer, but Kai Havertz, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Armando Broja have all struggled to score goals this season with all of their futures up in the air heading into the summer transfer window - which may allow Firmino to come in for free.
Tottenham may face a battle to keep hold of Harry Kane this summer with Manchester United and Bayern Munich having been linked with the England star. Firmino could prove to be a brilliant short-term replacement for Kane if he was to leave Spurs, given his ability to link up play by dropping deeper and bringing other attackers into promising areas of attack.
Firmino may look to leave the Premier League given his affinity to Liverpool, but Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham should all be considering a move for the Brazilian as he can still provide a lot of quality in key areas that need addressing for each club.
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