According to sources, an opening bid for a Brazilian midfielder who is ‘sold’ on joining Liverpool is on the way, and the Reds have a ‘strong chance’ of completing a deal if one thing happens in the next seven days.
Midfield moves were always going to dominate the headlines at Anfield this summer, and they have.
The departures of Fabinho and Jordan Henderson were unexpected when the transfer market opened. However, when lucrative bids from Saudi Arabia arrived, Liverpool couldn’t pass up the opportunity to cash in on two aging icons.
As a result, despite signing Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, one or two more arrivals are likely.
The moves will be made in holding midfield. Indeed, the Reds do not currently have a proven defensive midfielder on their roster. Stefan Bajcetic, who is only 18 years old and has made less than 20 senior appearances, did play as a No. 6 at times last season.
As a result, Liverpool have increased their pursuit of Southampton star Romeo Lavia.
Personal terms are already in place, while the Reds have yet to match the Saints’ asking price.
Southampton’s asking price is £50 million, and Liverpool’s second proposal of £43 million was rejected on Tuesday.
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While Liverpool could make a third offer, Jurgen Klopp’s side is also planning a move for Brazil international Andre.
Liverpool is preparing an offer for Andre; Copa Libertadores outcomes are critical.
The 22-year-old plays club football for Fluminense, where he has around 150 appearances.
Andre is a defensive midfielder who made his debut for Brazil in a 4-2 friendly loss to Senegal in June.
Liverpool made official contact with Fluminense, according to Sky Sports on Tuesday. According to their source, Andre is’sold on a move to Anfield,’ however Fluminense will need convincing.
Andre is a prominent player for the club, which has gone to the Copa Libertadores knockout stages. That competition is South America’s counterpart of the Champions League.
According to ESPN Brazil, Fluminense will decide whether to trade Andre following their Round of 16 matches against Argentinos Juniors.
The first leg of the tie begins at 11 p.m. UK time on Tuesday. The return leg is scheduled for August 8.
According to the article, if Fluminense is eliminated, there is a ‘strong likelihood’ they may consider Andre’s sale. If they make progress, Andre will be unable to depart, and a move may have to wait until at least January.
In any event, Liverpool are said to be ready to make an opening proposal of £21.5 million. The Reds would be willing to spend as much as £25.8 million for the player, indicating their considerable interest.
ESPN Brazil found that Fulham had a bid for Andre worth £17.2 million rejected by Fluminense, which explains why Liverpool has settled on those figures.
Given that Fluminense’s decision appears to be totally dependent on their Copa Libertadores fate, Liverpool fans will be keeping a close eye on their Round of 16 matches.
It’s unclear whether Liverpool could sign both Andre and Lavia, or whether it’ll be one or the other.