Liverpool could make a shock bid for Real Madrid’s Fabio Coentrao, according to reports.
The 28-year-old had a decent start to life in La Liga, after his £30 million transfer from Benfica in 2011. But he was used mainly as a second choice left-back to Marcelo under the management of Carlo Ancelotti. During his time at the Bernabeu, he won the La Liga, Copa del Rey, Champions League, Super Cup and Club World Cup.
He spent the 2015-16 season on loan at AS Monaco, and according to Daily Star, Liverpool could make a shock bid for the player in an effort to reinforce their defense. With the surprise exits of Martin Skrtel and Kolo Toure, Liverpool’s defense is in the hands of talented but inexperienced youngsters. With the addition of Coentrao, though, that could change.
However, the left-back had suffered an injury in April while playing for Monaco and is out till October. So while a signing may seem unlikely, the indifferent form of Alberto Moreno could force Jurgen Klopp to strike a hasty deal with Madrid.
Although a left back, Coentrao can also play as a left winger. In 55 appearances for Madrid, Coentrao has scored just one goal. But in the 15 matches he has played for Monaco, he has already netted three.
His injury may make the situation difficult for any club signing him, but there is no question of his capabilities.
If the deal does happen and Coentrao gets match-fit soon, it will be come as a relief to all the Anfield faithful, who although having seen the Reds overcome the Gunners in a seven goal thriller, could do without their team conceding three in a match.
But it remains to be seen whether an official bid is made. The Premier League is very physically demanding and Coentrao needs to sort out his injury issues to be able to put up with the daunting task of leading the back four.
