According to a report from The Athletic, Liverpool are bracing themselves for an imminent offer from Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad, who are preparing to make a concrete bid for Brazilian international Fabinho. The 29-year-old midfielder’s potential transfer to Al Ittihad is expected to carry a value of £40 million, and a decision on the matter is likely to be reached swiftly.
Fabinho’s Campaign With Liverpool Last Season
Fabinho enjoyed a decent campaign at Anfield as he put in a series of consistent displays for the Merseyside outfit in the middle of the park. The Brazil international was involved in 39 matches for the Madrid outfit last season, earning two assists in all competitions.
The 29-year-old was a reliable performer in the holding midfield positions based on his average of 0.5 key passes, 1.8 tackles, 1.0 interceptions and 1.1 clearances per game in Premier League football. He even distributed possession really well in the opposition half, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 88.7%in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
Should Klopp Sanction His Exit?
Fabinho’s ability to read the game and anticipate the opposition’s moves allows him to make crucial tackles, interceptions, and timely challenges, providing a solid shield to the backline.
Known for his exceptional defensive capabilities, Fabinho has been a linchpin in Liverpool’s midfield. His imposing physicality, intelligent positioning, and tactical awareness make him formidable in intercepting opposition attacks and breaking up play. Additionally, his ability to regain possession quickly and launch swift counter-attacks has been instrumental in Liverpool’s high-tempo style of play.
Liverpool’s primary concern in entertaining the potential transfer of Fabinho to Al Ittihad revolves around the absence of a suitable replacement for their key defensive midfielder. Fabinho has played an indispensable role for the Reds, excelling in the pivotal No. 6 position and providing vital defensive stability to the team.
Losing Fabinho without securing an adequate substitute would undoubtedly pose a significant challenge for Liverpool. Finding a player with a unique blend of defensive solidity, passing range, positional versatility, and leadership qualities would be daunting.
Considering Fabinho’s current age of 29, regarded as the prime year for a football player, his contributions to the club have already proven invaluable. Looking ahead, he possesses the potential to offer even more in the coming seasons. Consequently, it is imperative for the Merseyside club to exert every effort to retain him this summer.
