Scout Report: Henrikh Mkhitaryan

By now most Liverpool fans would have figured out how to pronounce and type Henrikh Mkhitaryan. Perhaps Armenia may not the most likely source of football talent, but here’s why Liverpool are considering a £20 million bid for Shaktak Donetsk’s attacking midfielder.

Playing Style

A goal-scoring central attacking midfielder, he made his name through his fantastic reading of the game and killer instinct in front of goal. His goals predominantly come from beating the offside trap by peeling away from his markers, and he traditionally plays behind a main striker for Shaktak Donetsk – in a number 10-esque role for the Ukranian club.

A technical players, he had a prolific 2012/13 season, notching up 25 goals in the Ukranian Premier League for Shaktar Donetsk. A weakness of the Armenian remains to be his aerial ability and defensive awareness – but given his tall physique, it is likely that it won’t stop him from a big money move.

His leadership qualities on the pitch are also evident for both Armenia and Donetsk – with him looking likely to take the armband for Armenia for many years to come.

Bargaining Position

Mkhitaryan has already publicly declared that he won’t be playing for Donetsk next season, and Liverpool remain favourites to sign the Armenian, with Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal reportedly in the chase for the attacking midfielder. The midfielder is said to be fluent in English – which will make for a smooth transition to Premier League football should he decide to make the move over the next few months.

Regarding the Transfer

This deal is said to weigh very heavily on whether Luis Suarez leaves the club (for big money) or not. Donetsk are said to be demanding in excess of £20 million (fee require said to be £22 million). According to the rumour mill, Liverpool are reportedly very close to agreeing a deal for the midfielder at around £21 million.

Where He Fits

If Suarez is to leave Liverpool, the Reds are likely to secure the services of another striker in addition to Mkhitaryan. For now, I reckon this is the strongest squad for Liverpool at the moment (with everyone in the squad barring Suarez). Daniel Sturridge is likely to be up front as a striker with Mkhitaryan playing in the pocket just behind him. Coutinho will move out left and Jordan Henderson/Stewart Downing will take the place on right wing.