Roberto Firmino has enjoyed a stellar season so far for Liverpool.

The Brazilian has 16 goals and a further eight assists in all competitions for the Reds this term, and he is unlikely to slow down anytime soon with the Anfield club looking imperious going forward.

Firmino is a key part of manager Jurgen Klopp's 'gegenpressing' tactic, with the No. 9 happy to defend from the front by pressing defenders in possession of the ball.

Furthermore, his versatility means that he can comfortably change positions with wingers and attacking midfielders, confusing the opposition defence as they can never be sure who is playing in which position.

This tactic has been a main reason behind Liverpool's attacking prowess this season, with Firmino working in perfect harmony with wingers Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané, and the recently departed Philippe Coutinho.

Firmino now has to work without his compatriot

Unless you've been living under a rock for the last week, you will surely know that Coutinho has left Liverpool for FC Barcelona in a reported £145m switch to La Liga.

Coutinho has earned his dream move after distinguishing himself as a world-class attacker at Liverpool but has now left a gaping hole in the Reds' attack.

The one player who will feel his absence more than any is his fellow countryman Firmino - the two combined excellently on the pitch, but were also great friends in the dressing room.

The man who remains at Liverpool took to social media to express his sadness at no longer being able to work with Coutinho.

Firmino called Coutinho his "brother" and a "magician" and says it was an "honour" to play alongside his compatriot.

It looks like Firmino could be sticking around for good

Having already lost one of their Brazilian sensations, Liverpool is making preparations to ensure that they keep hold of one of their other prize assets.

According to reports, the Merseyside club is preparing to offer a contract to Firmino that would mean he would be tied to the Reds for the rest of his career.

Their No. 9 is currently contracted until the summer of 2020, but Liverpool wants to make sure that, if they have to lose Firmino at any point, then they will be able to command the highest fee possible due to having complete security on the contract front.

The deal will almost certainly mean the forward will be in line with a pay rise, as the club will probably need to sweeten the deal in order to convince him to complete his career on Merseyside.

Liverpool are likely to turn their contract-renewal priorities to Emre Can first, as the German's current deal expires in the summer and the club are in danger of losing him on a free transfer.

Also, there is the small matter of replacing Coutinho. With £145m burning a hole in their pockets, Liverpool is not short of options, and Dortmund striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is the latest name linked with the club.