Liverpool could switch their attention towards Florentino Luis as a viable option to replace Fabinho, who could leave for Saudi Arabia.
According to Neil Jones, Liverpool have set sights on Florentino Luis as a replacement for Fabinho. The 23-year-old Portuguese midfielder could leave Benfica for as little as £25 million. Jurgen Klopp seeks an alternative with a mixture of youth and experience.
Florentino Luis has the right mix of experience after featuring 86 times for Benfica. He has become a mainstay on that side and comes at the back of a title-winning campaign. He continued to excel in that side despite losing key midfield partner Enzo Fernandez in January.
He was on the radars of some top clubs, and Benfica could entertain bids amid growing interest. While no club has come forward with offers for the 23-year-old, his asking price at £25 million, seems much lower than the release clause in his contract.
That may have played a part as Liverpool now ponder a move for the defensive midfielder. Jurgen Klopp had reportedly decided not to make any more midfield signings after the arrival of Dominik Szoboszlai. The raft of changes since has forced the German tactician to re-enter the market for more than two players.
Captain Jordan Henderson could leave for Al-Ittifaq after landing a lucrative offer recently. What followed was serious interest in fellow Saudi side Al-Ittihad in midfielder Fabinho. They are willing to offer £40 million for the Brazilian enforcer, with the player keen on the move.
Liverpool are also open to letting him go as he was not named a part of the travelling pre-season squad. Hence, Klopp has to figure out a replacement for Fabinho and possibly Henderson. Romeo Lavia has been a target for quite a while, but his young age and massive price could see Klopp cool his interest.
Moises Caicedo also emerged as a target, but Brighton’s demand could scupper a move right at the initial stages. Hence, the idea of Luis excites Klopp, who could become available at a relatively cheaper price and has the right mix of age and experience.
Whether Liverpool are serious about the move remains the question, as they will likely begin making offers soon. Lavia also remains an option, but only if Southampton reduce their current asking price of £50 million.
