Lucas Moura was tipped as one of the world stars of the future during his time with Sao Paulo, with some even believing he could be better than the country’s other prospect Neymar. Several years on, and although both have made an impact for their country and in European football, there isn’t even a debate when it comes to be better player.
Neymar has shone for Barcelona, emerging as the best player in the world behind Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile becoming a part of the most feared attack in world football. In contrast, at the same time, Lucas Moura has failed to make the desired impact at PSG, and hasn’t nailed down a place in the national side, even missing out on the World Cup in his homeland.
Although he is well liked by PSG supporters and the owners have him down as a central ingredient of their project, he will be concerned at his lack of progress at the club. Lucas is still battling to hold down a starting berth at the French champions, and the interest in him; especially from Liverpool, could appeal.
At the age of 23, he has time on his side and a move to a new league may aid his development. Furthermore, the possibility of becoming a key part of an exciting project under a tactically astute, young coach like Jurgen Klopp in a competitive league will be an attractive proposition for the Brazilian.
He has been criticised by the French media often, with Le Parisien voting the Brazilian the worst PSG player over the first half of last season. That may have been harsh as there were bigger disappointments in the side, but it may be indicative of the large expectations that were placed upon him when he joined the club.
A move to a new team would give the 23-year-old a fresh start in a new environment, one in which there is less pressure. Although the Liverpool fans are demanding, at PSG, the side are expected to dominant Ligue 1 and seriously challenge for the Champions League. The Reds are not quite at that level yet, but they will aim to become one of England’s most successful clubs again under Klopp. Lucas may benefit from developing naturally with Liverpool, making it a sensible move for both parties.
For Liverpool, they are looking for more attacking options, with Sadio Mane also on their radar. They will want to bring in dynamic, direct and tactically flexible players that fit seamlessly into Klopp’s high intensity style of play. Lucas is certainly that, while he also has the potential to grow into a world-class player with the right coaching.
Currently, Liverpool are not at the level to attract the best players in the world, but those with a profile similar to Lucas are very appealing. Klopp will look to build a young, hungry side with the ability to develop together into a Champions League team. In these regards, Lucas is perfect in every single way. The price tag could prove to be an issue, as he still has a lot of value and PSG will be aware of that.
In terms of his style, Lucas is quick and very skilful with tremendous ability with the ball at his feet. This can make him highly exciting to watch. The Brazilian beats players with ease and has an eye for goal, with a direct style. In recent months, he has also become effective in the air, with an impressive leap, leading to a great deal of headed goals. His pace makes him difficult to deal with, while his end product is improving.
It must be said that Lucas is not at the level at which he wanted to be by this stage in his career, but that does not mean he isn’t a wonderful player. His positional flexibility is also appealing, capable of playing on either the right or left side of the attack. Liverpool already have Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino. If they add Lucas, they could have an exciting attacking trio of Brazilians, possibly one of the most naturally gifted in the entire of England’s top flight.
It is clear that Lucas Moura is a very talented individual, who has yet to take the European game by storm like he was expected to. However, he has hardly been a failure at PSG, with some good performances and crucial goals helping the club improve.
His price-tag has always shackled him, and the lack of competition on a weekly basis is not great for players trying to further their games. Meanwhile, Liverpool are desperate to add attacking quality and a young, hungry player with the experience of Lucas could be a perfect signing. This move is very much in its primary stages, but it makes a lot of sense for both sides.
Featured Image: All rights reserved by marthamora30
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