By Kevin Phillips

23rd May, 2022 | 12:27pm

Takumi Minamino to 'definitely' quit Liverpool and sign for Premier League club after latest - pundit

Kevin Phillips has claimed a Premier League club beat Lazio to the signing of Liverpool star Takumi Minamino if the price is right.

The former Sunderland striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 27-year-old has proven himself to be a “really dependable option” this season.

According to Calciomercato (17 May), Lazio are interested in signing out-of-favour forward Minamino this summer.

The Japan international, who is under contract until June 2024, has scored 10 goals this term despite starting just nine games.

Leeds United were linked with a move for the former Southampton loanee during the January window.

Phillips backed a Premier League side to swoop in and gazump Lazio this summer.

“It will come down to finances for any Premier League side,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.

“If Liverpool let him go for a reasonable price, then I can definitely see there being interest.

“He’s a good player. He’s undoubtedly showed his talent this season, popping up with some crucial goals and being a really dependable option. English sides will be sniffing around, for sure.

“It’ll ultimately come down to his wages and the fee. I think any Premier League side could probably beat Lazio in terms of spending.”

Liverpool confirmed the signing of Fabio Carvalho on Monday (23 May) – a deal which could push Minamino even further down the pecking order at Anfield.

Minamino joined Liverpool from Red Bull Salzburg for a reported £7.25million in 2020.

He has scored 14 goals in 55 appearances for the Merseysiders.

In other news, pundit issues “crazy” Sadio Mane verdict after source’s Liverpool contract update.