Liverpool Close to Deal For England & Southampton Star Rickie Lambert

Liverpool and Southampton were two of the best performing teams in the past season of the English Premier League, and this summer many Saints players have been linked with a move to Anfield, however, none believed it would be Rickie Lambert. Liverpool had been linked with Luke Shaw and Adam Lallana, but are believed to be closing in on a deal for veteran forward, Rickie Lambert. The deal would be worth around $7 million, and would boost Liverpool's squad.

Liverpool currently have Luis Suarez, and Daniel Sturridge in the striking department, but Lambert would give Liverpool three strikers that are at this summer's 2014 World Cup, showing the strength they could have. The 32-year-old is moving towards the end of his career, but with the World Cup and this move in line, it seems the end of his career could prove to be a very dramatic one.

Is this a smart move for Liverpool to make, or is it a sign that they will never compete with Chelsea or Manchester City, who only aim for players of superstar status? With little to no cover this season, it ensures the pressure will be taken off the starting two, and it provides Liverpool with a very different option from the bench. Who would've thought Liverpool and Rickie Lambert could unite and enter the 2014/15 UEFA Champions League together?

Are the Saints right to cash in on their ageing forward, and will Liverpool reap the rewards from Rickie? It's going to be an interesting England team the world see, and one largely composed of Liverpool players.