Glen Johnson has claimed Liverpool should sign Raphinha to deputise for Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, both forwards depart for the African Cup of Nations this month leaving Jurgen Klopp short of attacking options.
Former Reds defender Johnson is concerned the likes of Takumi Minamino and Divock Origi are not up to the task of replacing the Reds' prolific duo.
Liverpool are rumoured to be interested in signing Leeds star Raphinha, the 25-year-old has scored eight goals this season despite Marcelo Bielsa's side struggling near the bottom of the table.
Johnson believes signing the Brazilian international is the logical move to strengthen the Reds’ attack in the absence of Salah and Mane.
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“No disrespect to Takumi Minamino and Divock Origi, they’re not Mane and Salah,’ he told Boyle Sports Football
“They’re good impact players, certainly Origi, whenever he’s come off the bench he’s always been ready and he usually scores.
“But to start and play for 90 minutes, I don’t think he’s at their level, but there are not many players who are.
“Liverpool will be looking to buy someone, not just for the two games [Salah and Mane will miss], but even for next season.
“I like Raphinha, who they’ve been linked with. He’s a good player, he’s very intelligent, he’s good on the ball.
“He’s got a bit of Riyad Mahrez about him, the way he glides around.
“He could be a good impact player for them. He’s a realistic target. No disrespect to Leeds, but the player is going to want to go to a top team.
‘Leeds are struggling and could want to take the money. There are other players out there, but sometimes it’s too difficult to get them out of their clubs. With Raphinha, it’s a real, serious opportunity.’
The Reds will have Salah and Mane for their crucial trip to Chelsea on Sunday, before they depart to represent their countries.
However, Klopp will not be in dug out at Stamford Bridge after returning a suspected positive Covid test.
