Despite latest rumours of a potential swoop by Real Madrid, there’s a new twist in the Adrien Rabiot tale with the Blancos denying any interest in the Frenchman according to Marca in their latest report. The 24-year-old PSG midfielder has opted not to extend his stay after spending almost a decade in the French capital and is now set to be a free agent once the season concludes.
This must be a significant boost for the Reds who have been one of the potential suitors for the midfielder. The player’s love of Liverpool might work as a catalyst in any post-season deal if Jurgen Klopp sanctions a transfer.
Rabiot was linked to a move to Barcelona as well, but a mega-money move for Frenkie de Jong has shattered any hope of him joining the Blaugrana as things stand. The Catalans have enough depth in the middle of the park, therefore, would no longer require further reinforcements even though the France international is set for a Bosman switch.
The midfielder, meanwhile, has been left out of the squad since late December following a rift over the contract saga. However, he is full of talent beyond a shadow of a doubt and Liverpool would undoubtedly be benefitted if they manage to rope him in ahead of the others.
The Reds have plenty of central midfield options that include Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, Georginio Wijnaldum and James Milner. They have been energetic, combative and workaholic, yet lack the creative spark and innovation needed to grind out results in close contests. Although Klopp is banking on Naby Keita and Adam Lallana to create the same, the duo has failed to earn a regular role due to off form and fitness concerns.
Rabiot prefers to operate box-to-box while carrying the ball forward from the deep banking on his strong dribbling skills. He is mobile, loves to play one-twos with his teammates to create space against deep-defensive opponents. Although the pace, power and physicality of Premier League might see him struggling in the initial days, the tutelage of Jurgen Klopp would be beneficial for the youngster if he offers enough in the training ground while adjusting to Klopp’s passing and pressing football.
The likes of Fabinho, Andrew Robertson and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain took time to understand the German’s philosophy before emerging as his prized resources. Rabiot might eventually follow the same path if the Reds step up the chase and strike a deal with the player’s entourage.
