Where next for Divock Origi? Serie A clubs interested, but a Premier League move remains likely

Sean Fisher
13 December 2021

Despite scoring some crucial goals for Liverpool, the 26-year-old Belgian has never nailed down a starting spot under Jurgen Klopp and could be tempted by a move in January.

Since arriving in Liverpool in 2014, Divock Origi has scored some decisive goals on the biggest of stages. From a last-gasp winner in the Merseyside derby, to doubling the lead in a Champions League final, Origi has often been the man for a big occasion.

Yet, despite timing his goals impeccably, Origi has never found his way to becoming a permanent starter under Jurgen Klopp, making only 103 appearances in his seven seasons at Anfield.

Now with Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Diogo Jota all wrestling for places in Klopp's plans, Origi finds himself sidelined more than ever, and could be tempted by a move away.

Two Italian outfits are at the forefront of the rumours, but there are plenty of other potential destinations for Liverpool's out of favour striker.

AC Milan

The favourites to land Origi are AC Milan, who could even move for him as soon as January.

Currently competing with rivals Inter Milan for the league title, they'll want to reinforce their striking department that is currently headed by a 40-year-old Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

As good as the Swedish forward is, his age limits him from playing every game, and so Origi could be the perfect option for the club as they search for a new long-term forward.

Having not appeared too often in the Premier League, he wouldn't demand a ridiculously high fee, and with regular game time on offer, it's also a move that Origi will favour.

Atalanta

The other Italian club that seems to be interested in Origi is Atalanta, who will need to replace wantaway striker Luis Muriel.

Origi would likely play second fiddle to Duvan Zapata, but with Gian Piero Gasperini favouring three attacking players, there's plenty of space for Origi to get his desired game-time.

The Bergamo-based club are well in the title race this season, just three points adrift of leaders Inter Milan, and with Atalanta becoming Champions League regulars, it's another selling point that could entice Origi.

Lille

If Origi wanted to return to a more familiar environment, then Lille could be an option. Having risen through their ranks during his youth, it was there that the Belgian striker first caught the attention of Europe's elite, earning him his move to Liverpool.

Even after completing his Anfield move in 2014, he returned on loan to the French club for the remainder of the season, making 33 appearances and scoring eight times.

The promising Canadian talent Jonathan David makes up half of Lille's current strike force, often partnering 36-year-old Burak Yilmaz up top.

With the Turkish international not far from hanging up his boots, Origi would make a perfect replacement.

Plus, the French side have found their way into European competition in recent years and have even qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League this season. They currently sit down in 11th in Ligue 1, but there's still plenty to offer Origi if he desires a French homecoming in January.

Newcastle United

Eddie Howe encourages Joelinton in Newcastle's clash with Burnley, dec2021

Another transfer target to add to the thousands on Newcastle's list. Since their Saudi Arabian takeover, there's been more talk about Eddie Howe's potential spending in January than there has on his actual results - probably for the best.

Frankly, it seems like most of Newcastle's problems are at the other end of the pitch, but with a seemingly unlimited war chest, it wouldn't be surprising if they also bolstered their attacking reinforcements.

Callum Wilson has been Howe's first choice up top, but with only the out-of-form Joelinton as back-up, Newcastle could dip into the market in January. Not many clubs will want to offload players mid-season, but they could find themselves in luck if they pursue Origi.

It's a huge risk for the player given that there's no guaranteeing Newcastle's survival this season. But what is guaranteed is plenty of game time, and a hefty cheque alongside it too.

Brighton

Another Premier League club on Origi's radar is Brighton, who have often struggled to score under Graham Potter.

The Seagulls started the season superbly but have since fallen to 11th. They certainly don't struggle to create chances, but have dropped too many points due to missed opportunities.

Their eight draws this season shows just how much they're lacking a game-winner, and Origi is just that. He's proven during his Liverpool career that he can provide crucial goals when needed, and that alone could tempt Potter to splash the cash.

Brighton have been linked with Origi before, including in the latest summer transfer window. But, having failed to make an official move, they could be tempted to reignite their interest in January as they look to get their season back on track.