"Would be a fantastic signing" - John Barnes weighs in on reported Liverpool target

Former Liverpool winger John Barnes has given his verdict on Barcelona forward and reported Reds target Ousmane Dembele.

The 58-year-old believes that the Frenchman would be a decent signing for Liverpool providing he can stay fit.

Dembele has suffered a number of injuries since joining Barcelona back in the summer of 2017.

Barnes further added that Dembele would suit Liverpool's style of play.

As quoted by Anfield Watch's Twitter account, the former Red told Bonus Code Bets the following: "Ousmane Dembele would be a fantastic signing as long as his fitness holds up. I don’t know the state of his fitness, but his profile would suit Liverpool. He’s fast, he’s direct, he’s skillful and aggressive with the ball. "That’s what Liverpool’s front three are. He’d be a perfect replacement in the short term for [Sadio] Mane and [Mohamed] Salah [while at the AFCON]. And both of them are coming up to 30 - Dembele’s still young, so even in the long term he could be a good replacement. "That wouldn’t just be a stopgap signing. I look at him in the same vein as Diogo Jota, who can come in and play instead of [Roberto] Firmino or Mane if they’re injured or not playing well. Just from his quality, Dembele would be a great signing."

Anfield Watch Verdict

We completely agree with Barnes that Dembele would be a decent signing for Liverpool providing he can stay on the park.

Footage of the winger highlights that he has plenty of natural ability. Dembele is also only 24 years of age, which means that he would be a long-term investment for the club.

The Frenchman possesses a current market value of €30 million.

However, Dembele's contract expires in the summer. With that being the case, the forward could be available on a free transfer at the conclusion of the 2021-22 campaign.

Only time will tell if Liverpool are to make a move for Dembele.