In a surprising twist, Fabinho’s much-anticipated £40m transfer from Liverpool to Saudi Pro League side Al Ittihad is facing hurdles as ongoing discussions revolve around the deal’s structure, according to sources at SportsWeez.
The 29-year-old Brazilian, who still has three years left on his Anfield contract, was previously given permission to undergo a medical with the Saudi champions. The potential move would see him joining forces with the likes of Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante at a club managed by former Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo.
However, the transfer process has hit a snag, with Liverpool yet to agree on the specific terms of payment for the transfer fee. Both Liverpool and Al Ittihad are reportedly willing to work through the issue, but the resolution has been slower than expected.
As negotiations continue, Fabinho will surprisingly return to training at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre until a resolution can be reached between the two clubs.
Looking ahead, Liverpool has already begun planning for life after Fabinho and his teammate Jordan Henderson, who is also expected to make a move to Saudi Arabia, joining former teammate Steven Gerrard at Al Ettifaq.
Liverpool’s attempt to secure Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia as a replacement for Fabinho has faced an initial rejection. However, the club is expected to return with an improved bid surpassing the £35m plus add-ons package initially proposed.
The 19-year-old Lavia, with his defensive midfield prowess, is seen as a strong contender to fill Fabinho’s shoes, with Southampton valuing him at over £50m. Arsenal and Chelsea are also keeping a keen eye on the young Belgian and might make their own moves for him.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, in a recent interview with the club’s official podcast, emphasized his focus on training sessions while hinting at potential new signings to strengthen the squad before the upcoming season.
The departure of experienced midfielders such as Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and James Milner, alongside the proposed exits of Fabinho and Henderson, signals a significant changing of the guard for Liverpool’s midfield.