3 reasons Liverpool must make Man City ace #1 January target

Not only are the Reds trying to rectify an 11-year streak in which they’ve lifted just a solitary League Cup trophy (in 2012). But they’re also looking to push on in Europe long-term – having all-but-secured a place in the knockout stages this term.

As for Silva, he’s lifted five major trophies since joining City in 2010, playing a crucial role in victorious FA Cup and League Cup finals – as well as two Premier League triumphs.

The Arguineguin native also recorded goals and/or assists in the UCL knock-out stages in four different seasons – for City and Valencia respectively. That European record could also prove vital to a comparatively inexperienced Reds’ side finding their way on the continent’s biggest stage.

Reds could be the place for long-term game time

Having started every Premier League game so far this season, it’s unlikely we’ll see Silva lose his place at the Etihad this term. But the 31-year-old isn’t guaranteed a spot forever.

City’s squad has changed fairly drastically year-on-year, with the old guard gradually being fazed out. Joe Hart was let go by Pep Guardiola after more than a decade of service, while 34-year-old Yaya Toure – the four time African Footballer of the Year – has played just 29 minutes of Prem football in this campaign.

The club spent £10m on Brazilian central midfielder Douglas Luiz in the summer, and with the 19-year-old impressing on loan at Girona, there’s reason to believe he’ll be earmarked as Silva’s long-term replacement.

By contrast, Liverpool are in need of a dynamic central midfielder, to fit alongside the workmanlike-but-unspectacular Jordan Henderson. One would imagine that if Silva arrives in January, it could be the start of something great for the player and the Anfield giants.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing