Liverpool Planning £8 Million Swoop of Portuguese Star, Simao Sabrosa

According to unconfirmed reports, Liverpool are planning a £8 million bid for Atletico Madrid winger Simao Sabrosa. His addition is being seen by many as a solution to Liverpool's left-sided problems.

The 2009/10 season has seen Alberto Riera being out-of-favor for most of the season. Liverpool are looking for an experienced midfielder who can solve Benitez's worries in the midfield.

The 30-year-old wide man could be the solution to Liverpool's problems. With the cash-strapped Reds' looking towards a low transfer budget this summer the Portuguese international could be a good bargain for Liverpool.

Known for his set piece skills, dribbling qualities, and creativity, Simao could reduce the pressure on Rafa's star striker, Fernando Torres, by adding a creative element down the left.

The 2007 Portugal Player of the Year is gifted with wonderful close control and combined with lightning pace, goalscoring prowess, and a creative mind, he can be an asset for the Merseysiders.

Although widely seen as an under-achiever who failed to live up to his reputation, this could well be Siamo's chance to fulfill those unfulfilled expectations as he can use this as an opportunity to end his career on a high.

Although originally a winger, he can play both as an attacking midfielder as well as a forward. He can also play in a supporting role for Torres on a wider role along the wings.

Liverpool had earlier made an attempt to bring the Portuguese to Anfield in 2005 in an offer worth approximately £12 million, though negotiations reportedly failed over Benfica's increase in asking price.

But now Liverpool have the chance to broker a bargain with his present club, Atletico Madrid.

Simao's contract is due to end within a year's time and the La Liga outfit will be looking to cash-in on their player instead of letting him go for free.

Although Simao has denied any approach being made from Liverpool as of yet, a deal could be brokered as the Portugal national team regular has expressed interests in playing for a Premier League club.

Simao would only be a part-time solution to the Reds' midfield problems. He is already 30-year-old and well past his prime.

So Liverpool need to find a young player who can develop in the next couple of years to solve the Anfield outfit's midfield long term future before Simao retires.

But a player of Simao's quality at a price of £8 million could develop into a good bargain for Rafa, although it remains to be seen whether any such deal happens.