In a recent print edition, A Bola claimed that FC Porto are awaiting a move from Liverpool for Otavio this summer. It is believed that the Brazilian attacker has a €40m release clause which could rise to €60m at the beginning of July, so the Reds would have to move in for him quickly if they want to land him on the cheap in this off-season (transcripted and translated by Sport Witness).
Otavio’s Excellent Form At The Estádio do Dragão
The 26-year-old enjoyed a fruitful campaign in Portuguese football as he put in several influential performances as a key member of Porto’s attack. Otavio netted five goals and secured 12 assists in 42 appearances for the Portuguese outfit last season across multiple competitions.
The Joao Pessoa-born talent deserves a lot of credit for averaging 2.0 tackles, 0.8 interceptions, 1.4 shots, 1.7 key passes and 1.8 dribbles per game in the previous Liga NOS campaign. He was even tidy with his ball distribution, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 80.6% in the Portuguese first division (stats via whoscored).
Otavio has taken great strides towards improving himself over the past 12 months but needs to work on building up his strength if he intends to be a success story in Premier League football. The Brazilian sensation’s big release clause could make him a risky target for Liverpool to consider during this summer transfer window.
What Will Otavio Bring To Merseyside?
Otavio has proven his worth as a useful playmaker in Porto’s first team as he can create plenty of promising chances for his teammates in the final third. He is a delight to watch when he is dribbling at full swing in the opposition half.
The Liga NOS sensation has primarily been used as an attacking midfielder but is versatile enough to feature as a winger on either flank if needed. He can also chip in by scoring the odd goal every now and then.
Otavio usually works his socks off to help his teammates out at the back when the opposition are on the front foot. At 26, the FC Porto star is currently playing some of the best football of his career but there are some concerns over whether he would be able to maintain his high standards in Premier League football next season if the Reds manage to secure his signature this summer.
We can expect Otavio to bring some much-needed goals and creativity to Liverpool’s attack. Plus, he could even help the Merseyside giants challenge for the Premier League title once again in the coming seasons.
