Divock Origi has been an invaluable goalscorer for Liverpool this season, with his efforts of late proving particularly important, and now they are to be rewarded.
The Belgian has scored three goals in the last two games to keep previously slim hopes of a remarkable double alive as the Reds head into a decisive double-header.
An 86th-minute winner in the 3-2 victory over Newcastle on Saturday and another to seal a brace 79 minutes into the 4-0 thrashing of Barcelona on Tuesday have earned Origi a place in Anfield folklore.
This is to add to his contributions to the charge to the Europa League final in Jurgen Klopp‘s first season, and that incredible winner in the Merseyside derby in December.
Having spent last campaign on loan with VfL Wolfsburg, and not playing until November this time around, this is a major turnaround for the 24-year-old.
And according to both the Mirror‘s David Maddock and the Independent‘s Simon Hughes, Origi is now in line for a contract extension.
Though the timing of these reports could seem questionable, and perhaps knee-jerk, the striker has clearly regained Klopp’s faith after a period in the wilderness.
It is noted in both reports that Origi had opportunities to leave Liverpool for big money last summer, most notably to Wolves, but rejecting a move and fighting for his place has paid off.
Maddock adds that the deal offered will be “heavily incentivised,” to encourage him to “kick on and grasp a more regular starting spot.”
This will, of course, be difficult given the enduring presence of Roberto Firmino—whose absence through injury gave Origi the chance against Barcelona—but Daniel Sturridge‘s impending departure provides a bigger opening.
There are seemingly no plans to sign another striker in the upcoming transfer window, with Klopp instead promoting Rhian Brewster.
Origi has typically started on the left wing this season, but on Tuesday night offered a more focal presence leading the attack.
According to Maddock, “Klopp sees Origi’s versatility in being able to play across the front line, combined with a renewed fitness and scoring threat, as a valuable option.”
The Belgium international’s current deal expires in 2020, as does Joel Matip‘s, and it would be no surprise to see the centre-back handed a similar offer in the coming weeks.
Previous reports have claimed Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has been given a one-year extension following his 367-day spell on the sidelines.
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