The Merseyside derby is one of the most hotly contested fixtures of any Premier League season, and next year looks set to be no different.
Whilst much of the attention leading into the game is based around the atmosphere and the animosity between both sets of fans; many people forget that the players of each side often mirror that passion and drive to beat their rivals.
As a result, it seems almost unthinkable that any player would be willing to make the move across the city to the opposing team, but it has happened before! In fact, Liverpool have completed more direct transfers with Everton than any with other club!
It is definitely a curious talking point, and it would be interesting to note whether any players could make the move in order to benefit the other team, or even benefit themselves; irrelevant of how unlikely any deals might be.
Here are three Everton players that would be better off at Liverpool…
Romelu Lukaku
Romelu Lukaku is a player that would fit in perfectly at Anfield.
Much has been made about Liverpool’s striking dilemma’s since the departure of Luis Suarez, with Daniel Sturridge often out injured, whilst Balotelli and Benteke have been disappointing purchases.
In Lukaku, Liverpool would have a prolific front man that would be guaranteed to get the side goals, whilst also remaining fit for the majority of the season.
Lukaku is also reportedly unhappy at Everton, with reports suggesting that he wants to play for a bigger club; and whilst Everton fans might not want to admit it…Liverpool are a much bigger club on a global scale.
With Benteke’s Anfield departure looking imminent, Lukaku would be a perfect replacement.
John Stones
Another player that has been rumoured to have been looking for the exit door as he seeks a move to a bigger club is John Stones; another Everton star who could be wise to switch to the other side of the city.
He has reportedly handed in a number of transfer requests to leave the club, all of which have been denied; but it is clear that Stones wants out of the club.
Liverpool on the other hand have struggled defensively in recent years, and whilst Joel Matip has been brought in – question marks are still being raised over the long term quality of both Lovren and Sakho.
In Stones you have a world class central defender who could lead the Liverpool back line for years to come.
Ross Barkley
It would definitely be an unpopular move in the eyes of Everton fans if the Liverpool-born Barkley was to move to the other side of the city; but the deal would make sense for a lot of reasons.
He would fit in perfectly at Anfield, with the club’s play style being a perfect match for the technically brilliant Barkley.
You can also look at the quality of player that Liverpool have; Barkley would no doubt look improve more quickly when surrounded by world-class players.
Barkley is destined for a big money move eventually, and Liverpool will no doubt be keeping tabs on the talented youngster.
Perhaps the least likely of the trio; but Barkley could be the best match for Liverpool.
