The relentless rumors surrounding Anfield have provided plenty of entertainment throughout a trying season for Liverpool and while the majority of reports have come and gone without any actual moves, the one name that seems destined to eventually move on from this club this summer is Rickie Lambert. There will undoubtedly be a number of teams lining up for a chance to sign the 33-year-old striker at the end of the season and from Liverpool’s perspective, they’ve scored 63 goals this season, which is tied for the most in the Premier League. They can definitely live without him.
Considering his fall from favor under Brendan Rodgers this season, it should only be a matter of time before he makes his exit. Here is a look at the five most likely destinations where Lambert could end up following this Premier League season.
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Aston Villa
Perhaps the most likely destination for Lambert is still Aston Villa after a deal that would have facilitated his move there in January was shot down at the last minute. Liverpool reportedly had a deal in place that would have sent him to Villa Park. But, when Lambert shot down the deal because of the “lack of time” he had to decide on whether he wanted to move there. He probably wanted to make sure that they aren’t relegated as they are currently in 16th and just three points from the cutoff.
Lambert has since had plenty of time to think about what a move to Aston Villa would be like, so if they make the cut and choose to pursue him again at the end of this season, then a move could very well finally be completed.
Crystal Palace
Manager Alan Pardew inquired about the availability of Lambert on a potential loan in January and while nothing came of it, the fallout on both sides could lead to them negotiating a potential move again this summer. Lambert’s odds of leaving Liverpool have only increased since he has been virtually stapled to the bench. While the combination of Dwight Gayle, Glenn Murray, Marouane Chamakh, Shola Ameobi and Yaya Sanogo have scored just 10 goals between them for Palace this season, it’s clear that they need some help up front. A move here would make sense for both sides.
Southampton
One move that has gained some steam in recent weeks is the idea of Lambert going back to his former team since it would make sense for both sides if they were able to complete a deal. Ronald Koeman’s side have had a tremendous second half to the Premier League season but they have had success despite the goal scoring woes of players like Graziano Pelle. They would benefit from the addition of an experienced striker – especially for road games as they’ve scored just 15 goals in 15 away games.
Lambert understands Southampton’s structure and playing style, and could be the perfect fit when the team looks to address the position in the summer.
Burnley
Burnley is still fighting to avoid relegation but if they find a way to remain in England’s top flight, they could be major players for Lambert’s services. The lack of a physical striker that can consistently provide goals has been among the biggest issues that Burnley has been forced to deal with all season. Only two teams have fewest than their 26 goals this season. If they are able to hold on to a spot in the Premier League moving forward to next year, they could be players for Lambert.
Bournemouth
Eddie Howe’s side is close to securing a move to the Premier League next season and conventional wisdom is that they will want to make a splash with a potential play for Lambert in the summer. Howe has close ties with Rodgers and if Bournemouth makes the move, then Howe will likely make a strong push to acquire an experienced and physical striker. Lambert could be the perfect fit.
