Newcastle United have reportedly made a move to sign Liverpool striker Divock Origi on a free.
The Belgium international is set to leave Anfield this summer, with his contract due to expire. He’s a Liverpool ‘legend‘ according to Jurgen Klopp, but his time as a Red is coming to an end.
Origi has scored plenty of vital goals for Liverpool, particularly in their Champions League campaign in 2019. He scored twice in their comeback victory over Barcelona, then found the net in the final against Tottenham.
Despite his heroics, it is finally time for Origi to leave Liverpool. He won’t be getting a new contract, but he has been offered one by Newcastle.
According to Calciomercato in Italy, the Magpies have made an offer to bring the 27-year-old to St James’ Park. However, Origi has said no.
Why Divock Origi rejected Newcastle offer
The report adds that Origi turned down a move to Newcastle because he has already given his word that he’ll join AC Milan.
A deal is yet to be announced – confirmation is expected after Liverpool face Real Madrid in the Champions League final on May 28th.
While it isn’t official, Origi is remaining a man of his word and is heading to Milan rather than staying in the Premier League.
It’s certainly interesting to hear Newcastle made a bid sign the striker. Eddie Howe wants a new forward this summer, and it has been reported that that’s where most of the budget will go.
Of course, that wouldn’t have been the case if Origi joined on a free. But is he much better than what we’ve got? He certainly has a big reputation, but his goalscoring record isn’t as good as Callum Wilson or Chris Wood’s.
While he would have been a welcome addition, Origi perhaps isn’t the answer to our striking conundrum. However, it is proof that Newcastle are actively searching the free agent market.
Origi won’t be joining on a free, but there are plenty of other players who could. Jesse Lingard continues to be linked, while there’s also been fanciful reports of a move for Paul Pogba. The less said about the latter the better…
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