Amidst the excitement of the transfer window, Arsenal has received an unexpected suggestion to pursue Liverpool icon Roberto Firmino, who is now available on a free transfer following the expiry of his contract at Anfield.
The news of Firmino's departure from Liverpool at the end of the 2022-23 season was initially revealed by Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg in March. Despite being offered a two-year contract extension by the Reds, Firmino made the decision to seek new opportunities elsewhere.
The Brazilian center-forward bid farewell to Liverpool in a memorable fashion, delivering a goal in their final home game against Aston Villa, which helped Jurgen Klopp's side salvage a 1-1 draw. He continued his impressive form by finding the net in Liverpool's final match of the season against Southampton, resulting in an entertaining 4-4 draw.
Currently weighing his options, the 31-year-old Firmino is expected to receive numerous offers despite being in the latter stages of his career. With 111 goals for Liverpool and playing a vital role in their triumphs in major competitions like the Champions League and Premier League, Firmino's successful tenure at Anfield has undoubtedly captured attention.
In a surprising twist, talkSPORT presenter Ade Oladipo suggested that Arsenal could be the next destination for Firmino, a move that would undoubtedly leave Klopp heartbroken as Firmino holds a special place as one of his all-time favorite players.
Oladipo stated, "You know who he would be perfect for... I don't know if he would accept a place off the bench, maybe not even off the bench - Arsenal. I think [in] that intricate play, he'd be fantastic for Arsenal."
The suggestion raised eyebrows, and fellow talkSPORT host Rory Jennings questioned whether Firmino would tarnish his Liverpool legacy by making such a move, considering his deep connection with the club and its fans.
Jennings expressed his doubts, saying, "Does it not tarnish his Liverpool legacy? He's so synonymous with Liverpool Football Club, he represents not only Liverpool but this era of Liverpool. He's so loved, he was crying wasn't he [after his last game]. The song on the Kop will resonate forever, they'll be singing that in two decades' time."
While Firmino's skill set could potentially complement Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta's system, the likelihood of the transfer seems slim. One primary reason is Firmino's departure from Liverpool was motivated by his desire to become a crucial player at another club and feature regularly. Given Arsenal already has Gabriel Jesus as their striker, it is uncertain if Firmino would find the playing time he desires. Additionally, Arsenal's pursuit of Chelsea's Kai Havertz further complicates the forward positions.
Furthermore, considering Firmino's immense popularity and the adoration he has received from Liverpool fans, it is unlikely that he would want to face his former club in the upcoming season while wearing a different team's jersey.
Instead, it is more plausible that the highly-regarded Brazilian, capped 55 times for his country, will join a prominent European club. Juventus has emerged as a potential destination, where Firmino could potentially replace Dusan Vlahovic, while Real Madrid has also included him in their shortlist as a backup option if they fail to secure Kylian Mbappe's signature.
Meanwhile, Arsenal has reportedly scheduled a medical examination for an undisclosed player who is expected to become their first signing of the summer, according to a trusted source.