Liverpool fans will be hoping Roberto Firmino has been signed to play alongside Raheem Sterling rather than to replace him. However it seems more likely that the Brazil international's £29million move to Anfield will hasten the departure of the club's wantaway winger.
Sterling, Firmino and Philippe Coutinho would form a formidable trio behind a main striker such as a fully fit Daniel Sturridge or Liverpool target Carlos Bacca, however Manchester City look set to dash Brendan Rodgers' hopes of playing the aforementioned players in a new-look attack.
The Northern Irishman will not be as worried about losing Sterling after finalising a deal for the Hoffenheim playmaker as Firmino's statistics over the last three years make for better reading.
In fact, Firmino appears to be the superior player across nearly every department - especially when it comes to scoring and setting up goals.
Over the last three seasons, Firmino has scored a combined total of 28 Bundesliga goals whereas Sterling has hit the back of the net 18 times during the same time period.
The 23-year-old, who has become the Barclays Premier League's fourth most expensive Brazilian signing, has claimed 23 assists since the beginning of the 2012-13 season while Sterling has just 14.
Sterling was heavily criticised last season for squandering golden opportunities, particularly against Manchester United in December 2014 when the former Queens Park Rangers starlet was deployed in the No 9 role.
Firmino may have to deputise for the injured Sturridge at the beginning of the season and is a far bigger threat in front of goal.
The Liverpool new boy has scored a Bundesliga goal every 364 minutes since the start of the 2012-13 campaign, whereas Sterling only manages to contribute to his side's goalscoring tally every 519.
Liverpool's new No 11 has also managed to make a name for himself on the international scene.
Firmino, who is currently training with the Brazil national team squad in Chile, has scored four goals in nine games for the Selecao since making his international debut in 2014.
In comparison, Sterling has found the back of the net once during his 16 appearances for the Three Lions.
Sterling is also overshadowed by Firmino when it comes to defensive work such as clearances, tackles made and duels won.
All in all, Liverpool fans may soon have to wave goodbye to Sterling but they have a more efficient player on their hands and will be around £21m better off.
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