Long not the player for Liverpool – Danny Murphy

According to reports, Liverpool must pay at least £12million if they are to sign Southampton’s Shane Long.

Jurgen Klopp is believed to have identified the Republic of Ireland global as a January target due to the club’s lack of firepower up front.

The Sun understand that The Reds are plotting an £8m move for the former Reading striker, who has scored seven goals in 11 starts in all competitions this season.

“Shane Long? Really?! No, no, no, no, no”, was Murphy’s reaction to the rumours on TalkSport today. Perhaps Saints have noticed a hint of desperation from the Liverpool suits who came inquiring about Long, what with the club’s current strikers Divock Origi, Danny Ings and Daniel Sturridge all being injured?

However, latest reports suggest the Saints are refusing to entertain Liverpool’s interest.

‘Klopp needs a striker he can rely on, ‘ he added.

“There’s no point bringing in players who aren’t better than what you’ve already got”, said Murphy.

“I don’t think it will happen”.

But Murphy insists signing Long is not the answer, with the ex-midfeidler urging Klopp to begin playing to his squad’s strengths.

Liverpool have struggled for goals this season and top scorer Christian Benteke has found himself out of the starting lineup in recent weeks as Klopp has preferred to play Roberto Firmino in attack ahead of the Belgian. “Also, can he generate some cash by getting some players out”.