Liverpool ‘need to buy’ a new striker to replace Roberto Firmino this summer, according to The Athletic‘s James Pearce.

The 29-year-old is completely off the boil this season, scoring just six Premier League goals – just one his last 14 appearances, in all competitions – and struggling in his all-round game.

Firmino was again ineffective in Saturday’s 2-0 loss at home to Everton, fluffing his lines horribly with one shot that flew into the Kop end.

Pearce has described the Brazilian as a ‘spluttering’ influence on this Liverpool team, adding that the Reds ‘need someone capable of running in behind and getting on the end of crosses’.

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Pearce is spot on in his assessment, with Firmino genuinely looking like a weak-link these days.
That is a painful admission, considering what a great player he has been for Liverpool, but he is such a focal point that his shortcomings are affecting the entire team.

Firmino can still be an excellent squad player for years to come, but his time as a key starter every week appear to be coming to an end.

He has been off-the-boil for too long now, and while fatigue is clearly playing a part – he also looks to be struggling more than most without fans to entertain – he simply looks past his best.

Should Firmino be replaced in the summer?

Yes

No