Full coverage of the arrival of Celta Vigo forward Iago Aspas, who was the subject of a prolonged and fairly confusing transfer deal that's finally been confirmed by Liverpool.
With Liverpool's attack partially sorted after the January additions of Philippe Coutinho and Daniel Sturridge, it seemed as though they were only a piece or two away from finally having the required depth up top to properly support Luis Suarez. Most are hoping that the summer window will provide said depth, and if reports over the past couple of days are to be believed, Brendan Rodgers and Liverpool are looking to add Celta Vigo forward Iago Aspas, who's been a consistent bright spot for a Celta Vigo squad that's looking likely to start next season in the Spanish Second Division.
Aspas has spent his entire senior career at Celta; he broke through with the B squad in 2006 at age 19, and in 2008 he was promoted to the full squad, where he's been ever since. Despite their struggles in the first division this season, he's led the team in goals with 11 and tallied six assists while cementing himself as a constant threat across the forward areas.
He gained widespread notoriety earlier this season for a four-match ban as a result of a headbutt on Carlos Marchena during the derby with Deportivo; Celta trailed 1-0 in the 29th minute and Aspas, shortly after skying a volley in the Deportivo penalty area, ducked his head into the defender's chest and was promptly sent off. Comparisons to Luis Suarez seem somewhat apt; not simply because of the disciplinary concerns, but because he's a player who clearly thrives on energy and emotion, which at times can lead to a bit of erratic behavior.
Along with the similarities to the temperament of Liverpool's fiery Uruguayan have come much more favorable comparisons, most notably to Michu, who joined Swansea City last summer and quickly became one of the Premier League's hottest properties and is widely regarded as the deal of the season. Were Celta to be relegated (and the chances are very good) the cost to Liverpool would be similarly minimal, and they'd seemingly be adding someone who could add quality through the middle as well as from the wide areas. He's good on the ball and doesn't needlessly give away possession, and while he'd be making a significant leap in terms of environment, his mentality appears to indicate that he'd handle such a switch capably.
There's a different tone to the start of this summer, and talk of a deal for Iago Aspas only strengthens the positive sentiment that's been created with reports of early deals that leave little room for late summer drama. We'll continue to follow anything that's worth discussing, and for now we'll settle for a video of some of his better work this season.