Liverpool appear to be looking at Arsenal and Chelsea for inspiration in the transfer market, having reportedly opened talks with Fluminense star Andre over what could be a £21million signing. The young midfielder has been viewed as an alternative to Romeo Lavia, as the Reds are yet to meet Southampton’s asking price of £50m for the Belgian starlet.
Lavia was an unused substitute in Russell Martin’s squad to begin their Championship campaign as the Saints defeated Sheffield Wednesday 2-1 on Friday evening, but Liverpool have identified other options if they cannot get a deal for the 19-year-old over the line. After Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all departed Anfield, midfield reinforcements have been prioritised.
Having started attempts to prise Andre out of Fluminense, the midfielder could be the latest big talent out of South America as Liverpool could follow Arsenal and Chelsea by targeting the top Brazilian clubs for their up-and-coming stars.
Arsenal sporting director Edu has found success by tapping into his homeland’s market, landing Gabriel Martinelli for a bargain £6m from Brazilian second-division side Ituno. The forward has gone on to play a major role in the Gunners’ title charge last season, while they attempted to replicate the move by signing Marquinhos last summer.
Chelsea have also stepped up their efforts to bring in the best young players from Brazil, having signed both Andrey Santos and Angelo while also looking to land a third starlet in Deivid Washington. The latter is also the subject of a late hijack from Monaco, but it is clear that the hotbed of talent is being viewed as a priority by Premier League clubs – now including Liverpool.
Despite bringing in both Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai already this summer, the Reds have next turned their attention to a defensive-minded player following the exits of Henderson and Fabinho. Curtis Jones is expected to begin the season in a deeper role against Chelsea, having performed the same position in pre-season.
After being asked about Jones’ new position, Jurgen Klopp confirmed that he and sporting director Jorg Schmadtke were looking to improve in that area. He explained: “Curtis (Jones) is definitely one of the options, it’s no secret we’re looking for new players to join us.”
Lavia remains the top target ahead of Andre and it remains to be seen whether the Brazilian is being pursued in addition to the Southampton man, as Martin provided Liverpool with a boost having left the former Manchester City midfielder on the bench to begin their Championship season.
“Of course there will be people going,” Martin admitted on Friday. “And when they do go hopefully we will be able to add to the group with players that suit us, and will help the group.”