Liverpool have been urged to consider a move for Robert Lewandowski following the long-term injury to Hugo Ekitike.
The Premier League club are facing a major attacking setback after Ekitike was ruled out for nine months with a ruptured Achilles tendon sustained during a Champions League match.
The forward had scored 17 goals this season before the injury, leaving Liverpool with limited options in attack.
Former Liverpool and Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole said the club should consider a short-term solution, suggesting Lewandowski as a viable option.
He said: “If Arne Slot keeps his job at Liverpool, you have to go and get another striker.”
Cole added: “You’ll need someone who can come in and help with the load [while Ekitike is out], especially if they qualify for the Champions League. It’s a difficult recruitment job for them.”
Liverpool are currently relying on Alexander Isak as their primary central striker, increasing pressure on the squad ahead of next season.
Cole suggested the club must decide between signing an experienced forward or investing in a younger prospect.
He said: “You might be looking at a veteran striker.
“You could also look at the other end of the spectrum because you can’t go and get someone who is coming into the peak of their career to compete with Isak and eventually Ekitike.”
The former England international pointed to Lewandowski’s experience and consistency as key attributes.
He said: “Someone like Robert Lewandowski at 37 years old for example.
“He might fancy the challenge and also might fancy the fact that he still thinks he’s better than Isak and can get in the team. He could easily play 30 games.”
Lewandowski has remained productive for FC Barcelona, scoring 12 goals this season.
His contract is set to expire at the end of the campaign, which could make a potential move feasible.
Cole added: “There’s that, or you go and spend decent money on a really exciting 17-18 year old.”
He said: “You are however still gambling on whether they are capable of producing the goods as a second string to Isak.
“A difficult decision for Liverpool either way, but they are going to have to go out and get someone.”
