£17m and he's yours - A closer look at Liverpool's forward target

The argument as to much a player is worth stops at how much a club is willing to pay for this services, but it doesn't stop people arguing. According to Italian sources Liverpool will have to bid £17m for the services of Italy international Stephan El Sharaawy this January, but who is he, and what can he offer the Reds?

The 20-year-old is an intelligent player who is primarily a striker. However, his flexibility allows him to play on the left when needed and also gives him the capacity to float out into the other wing.

After an incredible season last time out - scoring 16 goals in 37 games, it now seems as though he is surplus to requirements and getting frustrated with life in the Italian capital.

As well as being a natural in front of goal, the forward created 56 chances last season for his team-mates, as well as completing 84% of his passes.

Liverpool's frontline is one of interchange, and El Sharaawy fits snugly into that. Luis Suarez, Philippe Coutinho and Daniel Sturridge are all able to mix it up and take up each other's positions, and the Italian would offer the Irish gaffer something else.

Will the Reds pay up?