Reports indicate that Crystal Palace are hoping to secure the signing of Liverpool’s Divock Origi before the transfer deadline.
ElDesmarque is reporting that Crystal Palace are nearing a £16.2million deal for Liverpool’s Divock Origi, potentially beating Valencia to his signature.
Origi is allegedly no longer wanted by Liverpool, having faded out of form after a relatively bright first couple of seasons that saw him claim 21 goals in all competitions.
But the Belgian has not pushed on since his move in 2014 and a move away from Anfield now looks necessary if he is ever going to.
Crystal Palace’s reported interest should certainly grab his attention, as they could be a match made in heaven.
The form of Christian Benteke last season has left the Eagles seriously considering a new forward, but replacing his physicality with something that fits into Roy Hodgson’s plans more comfortably is not easy.
His compatriot, however, might fit the bill. Tall and strong, Origi can offer the target up top that Benteke does while also fitting in well in the current Palace system that saw Wilfried Zaha and Andros Townsend thrive last year.
Despite being natural wingers, the duo operated as forwards very well, giving Palace the pace and drive they could not find in Benteke – but they are still not natural strikers.
And that is where Origi’s strength lies; the 23-year-old is an athlete, able to work hard, be a physical presence and threaten all over the pitch with great pace.
Much like Palace did after Zaha struggled at Manchester United and Townsend was deemed surplus at Tottenham Hotspur, the Eagles could be the perfect place for Origi to show what he can really do.
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