Liverpool Transfer Rumors: Adam Johnson Would Give Reds Attack Much Needed Boost

Liverpool must take advantage of the absurd amount of talent Manchester City boasts on their attack by swooping in on winger Adam Johnson.

The Reds offense needs help.

It was painfully obvious last season as they trudged to an eighth-place finish in the Premier League standings, and the 3-0 thrashing at the hands of West Bromwich in their 2012 opener didn't exactly inspire new confidence.

According to Independent reporter Martin Hardy, the Reds are realistic suitors for the talented wide player:

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Liverpool have emerged as favourites to sign the Manchester City winger Adam Johnson before the transfer window closes at the end of this month.

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With Manchester City, Johnson has scored 11 goals in 73 appearances since 2010. He has had trouble working his way into their regular lineup, and his numbers could increase further as a regular part of the Reds side.

At 25 years old, Johnson could be a long-term option. His left foot would add another dimension to Brendan Rodgers' possession-based attack. Bringing Johnson into the fold would allow the Reds to attack from the flanks, making their interior attackers even more dangerous.

Johnson's inexperience could be seen as a bad thing, but it shouldn't be. He's a young player who is eager to prove himself as a regular starter.

It's not like Liverpool has anything to lose. They're not an elite side, at least not at this point, and any talented addition to their offense must be greeted with optimism.

No player could fare much worse than their current array of attackers.

There are more proven options, but Liverpool needs to get creative here. Their attack needs something, and they can't rely on landing Fulham's Clint Dempsey. They also can't rely on current wingers like Joe Cole and young gun Oussama Assaidi to their bidding from the perimeter.

Liverpool really needs help at striker, but they should take any help they can get. Johnson is talented, young and hungry. He's already familiar with Premier League style of play, and he knows what it's like to play for a winning side.

The Reds must add something before the transfer window closes. If not, it's going to be another long year in Anfield.