By David Maddock 15 Comments
Liverpool-bound Iago Aspas insists he is not being signed to replace Kop idol Luis Suarez
As Reds wait for agent-related hitch to be resolved, Spanish forward says he's looking forward to linking up with the Uruguayan
Iago Aspas is expected to arrive at Liverpool next week, insisting he is not a āmini-Suarezā.
The similarities between the two forwards are clear, with the Anfield giants' likely new signing possessing both the skill and explosive personality of the man many reckon he is coming to replace.
Yet 25-year-old Aspas, who will be a Ā£7million capture from Celta Vigo, sees himself as a substitute for no one and believes he is ready to imprint his own unique personality on the Premier League.
āLiverpool are one of the biggest clubs in the world and I am going there to take an important step in my career, not to be a replacement for anyone,ā he said, as the Reds confirmed the deal.
āI think it is time for me to take the next step in my career and Liverpool can help me do that. I have confidence in my ability to move forward and to grow as a player.
āI described the move as emotional for me because it is such a big club and it means Iāve reached another level. But I am calm because I feel I am ready. I want to show that I am capable of playing at the level of this huge club.
āI am excited to be going to England ā I want to play in the Premier League. And I hope I will be helped to settle there by all the Spanish speakers at the club... including Luis Suarez.ā
Aspas was Celtaās top scorer in La Liga last season, with 12, as they narrowly avoided relegation.
He also created 70 Āgoal-scoring opportunities ā more than either Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi of Barcelona managed.
Just as Suarez has found himself in hot water for his on-pitch behaviour, Aspas does have a fiery temperament - he was banned for four matches last term after head-butting Deportivo defender Carlos Marchena.
Despite Liverpoolās Āconfirmation of the transfer as they continue their summer rejig, the little forward could still be forced to wait for the deal to be completed - the Spanish federation are retaining his player Āregistration while a dispute over agent rights is investigated.
http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/liverpool-transfers-iago-aspas-says-1953630