Rumor Mongering: Watford Among The Suitors For Liverpool’s Origi

Watford now have a Richarlison-sized hole in their lineup and a decent chunk of Everton’s cash in their pockets, so thoughts have naturally gravitated towards how that money will be spent. With the Hornets having had their issues scoring goals last season, and with Troy Deeney amazingly not getting any younger, acquiring an out-and-out striker has been something that Javi Gracia is rumored to be considering.

The Mirror have indicated that Watford are considering a move for Liverpool’s forgotten man Divock Origi. The Belgian has looked off the pace during the Reds’ preseason, and has struggled to make an impression since his return from the loan spell at Wolfsburg, so if an offer materializes, one would expect Liverpool to consider it seriously. The catch? Watford are keen on taking Origi on loan, while Klopp and company are interested mainly in a permanent move.

Another part of the issue might be the asking price. Liverpool have reportedly slapped a £27 million price tag on Origi, which seems . . . ambitious, given the 23-year-old’s recent history. Still, the market is still somewhat overheated, clubs are flush with cash, and it wasn’t that long ago that Origi seemed to hold a great deal of promise for both club and country.

There are other clubs reported to be interested in acquiring the striker’s services (whether at Liverpool’s asking price or not), so if Watford are serious, they may have to suck it up and spend some of that Everton money sooner rather than later - Liverpool seem unlikely to keep Origi around Anfield and Melwood for the coming year.