Five surprise striker signings for Liverpool

Liverpool (2/1 for a top four finish) are heavily rumoured to be ready to dip into the January sales for a new striker, with Daniel Sturridge sidelined and Mario Balotelli struggling to adapt to life at Anfield.

Back-up attackers Fabio Borini and Rickie Lambert also seem to be out of favour, so Coral writers look past the likes of Karim Benzema, and consider who Liverpool (7/2 to win the Capital One Cup) could realistically lure to the Premier League this winter.

Paco Alcacer
High-flying Valencia’s in-form forward Paco can provide service as well as strikes, with four assists and four goals in his 10 La Liga appearances this term. The 21-year-old Spain star’s style would suit Brendan Rodgers’ system down to the ground, and the youngster is also enjoying his stint in the national side, repaying Vicente del Bosque’s faith with three in four caps. It may be early days in his career, but Paco’s price will likely only sky-rocket.

Mattia Destro
Linked with Arsenal and Chelsea, Anfield could actually be the ideal destination for the Roma frontman. Destro is still just 23 and has plenty of potential, which should make him a perfect fit with former youth coach Rodgers. Speedy and agile, the Italian could easily be imagined linking up well with the likes of Raheem Sterling, and could either replace or reignite compatriots Balotelli and Borini. Destro is still not a guaranteed first pick in Rome, despite netting 13 times in 23 appearances last term, so could be available.

Mauro Icardi
Argentina cap attacker Icardi continues to impress for Inter Milan this term and, with the Serie A side struggling and reportedly considering axing boss Walter Mazzarri, their star striker could be up for grabs. The fiery 21-year-old centre forward has hit his stride with nine strikes in 15 appearances, and has shown flashes of being a real inspiration for both club and country in future.

Jackson Martinez
If Liverpool are prepared to part with more than a few pennies to prise him from tough negotiators Porto, the acquisition of Martinez would be a serious statement of intent. Whilst he could potentially cost as much as, if not more than, Benzema, the Colombia hitman should be an easier target if the price is right. Fast, strong and prolific, with 72 goals in 106 appearances for the Portuguese giants, Martinez should quickly take to life in the Premier League.