ROBERTO FIRMINO is being lined up for a stunning Premier League return, according to shock reports.
The Brazilian forward, 32, left Liverpool as a free agent after 111 goals in 362 appearances across eight years in the summer.
He signed a mega-money, three-year contract with Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ahli who also signed Edouard Mendy, Riyad Mahrez, Allan Saint-Maximin and Franck Kessie.
New captain Firmino made the dream start when he scored a hat-trick on his competitive debut.
But he is goalless in his subsequent 17 matches and has been dropped from the starting XI since October amid criticism from supporters.
Now it is understood Firmino has already grown frustrated in the Middle East.
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And, less than six months after arriving, the striker is considering leaving.
According to talkSPORT, Sheffield United are keen to snap him up.
Al-Ahli may be willing to arrange a loan transfer in January.
The Blades’ Premier League return has been a struggle with the Bramall Lane side bottom of the table with just two wins from 19 matches.
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The report adds Paul Heckingbottom was monitoring Firmino’s situation but with the manager replaced by Chris Wilder, it is unclear if a formal approach will be made.
United have managed just 15 goals with Cameron Archer and Oli McBurnie leading the way with three each – Gustavo Hamer is the only other member of the squad with more than one.
There is also interest from Turkey and other Saudi Pro League clubs, while Firmino would also consider heading home to Brazil.
Al-Ahli ideally want the former Reds hero to stay in Saudi Arabia, though.
Al-Shabab, Al-Ettifaq and Al-Fateh all remain linked with a swoop – especially as Al-Shabab have enough budget left to cover all of his wages.
But Steven Gerrard can only bring in his fellow Anfield legend to struggling Al-Ettifaq if parent-club Al-Ahli cover at least half of Firmino’s wages.
Gerrard told talkSPORT: “I obviously know Bobby extremely well, I’ve been a massive fan. I’ve followed him for years.
“At the moment he’s Al-Ahli’s player so it’s very difficult for me to comment on that situation.
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“But I’ve loved Bobby Firmino since the first day I watched him and I’m a huge fan.
“He belongs to another club, so I won’t sit here and name names.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
