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With Liverpool's chase of Yevhen Konoplyanka edging closer to what appears likely to be a positive conclusion, questions about Iago Aspas' future at the club are perhaps inevitable. With Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez ahead of him at his natural position and no European responsibilities, a wide attacker almost certain to walk into the starting eleven could see Aspas shifted off the matchday teamsheet entirely and into the stands.
Next year, with the return of Fabio Borini and Suso, things won't look any better for Aspas, and at the very least he will be expected to be loaned out in an effort to build up his sale price as the club has done this season with Oussama Assaidi. There was even a belief that loan might come as quickly as this month, with speculation a handful of Spanish sides wanted Aspas for the remainder of the season.
Valencia newspaper Super Deporte has reported that their city's big club has been seeking to do just that, looking to shore up their mid-table position and perhaps even push on for a European place as the season winds down. With current striker Jonas having only scored nine goals so far this season, there's even a chance Aspas could make a new home for himself on the Spanish coast. The reality, though, is he would at least arrive as a backup.
As a result, and also out of a desire to avoid and potential for an injury crisis up front, Liverpool and Brendan Rodgers have turned down Valencia's approach and suggested there will be no loaning of the player regardless of who arrives at Anfield today. Most will still expect Aspas to leave, but wherever he goes next, it won't be until the summer that he does it.
