Ousmane Dembele was once regarded as one of the world football’s greatest young talents, but his move to Barcelona hasn’t worked out.
Liverpool legend Steve Nicol wants the Reds to stay well clear of the France international as his contract comes to an end in Catalonia in the summer.
The 24-year-old has made just 81 appearances for Barcelona since joining for a staggering reported fee of £110 million from Borussia Dortmund in 2017.
Dembele has the profile of a player that would flourish under Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool, but the Frenchman’s attitude and desire have been questioned by ESPN pundit Nicol.
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“On his day? Which days are we talking about here? I can’t remember a day. This is a bust,” said the Liverpool legend.
“In my opinion, he has done absolutely nothing since he went to Barcelona.
“So why would you give this guy a contract worth millions when you could give it to somebody else who looks as though they might be better a professional and actually cares.
“Because the impression I get is that he is not a great professional and he doesn’t really seem to look as though he cares.”
This isn't the first time Dembele’s dedication has been called into question, but 27 caps for France suggest that the 24-year-old is extremely talented and might just need to feel loved at a club.
Lionel Messi’s departure has left a gap at Barcelona that needs to be filled, Dembele could have been that man, but injuries seem to have laid waste to his career at the Nou Camp.
With Liverpool’s famous front three all approaching the age of 30, the forward line needs new blood and competition for places will only enhance the Reds’ attacking output even more.
