Liverpool have reportedly assembled a shortlist of four players who could potentially fill the void left by Fabinho’s departure.
In recent days, there have been strong rumors linking both Fabinho and his long-serving midfield partner, Jordan Henderson, with transfers to Saudi Arabia. It is believed that Henderson has already reached an agreement to join Al-Ettifaq, where he would reunite with his former teammate and current manager, Steven Gerrard. However, the two clubs have yet to agree on a transfer fee for the England international.
Initially, it seemed like Henderson’s move was the most likely to happen, but the situation has taken a twist with Al-Ittihad showing a willingness to meet Liverpool’s demands for Fabinho. Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that the Saudi Pro League champions are prepared to pay £40 million for the 29-year-old Brazilian. Liverpool is expected to accept the deal, evidenced by Fabinho’s exclusion from the squad for the upcoming pre-season friendlies.
At this point, it remains uncertain whether Fabinho’s departure would affect the talks surrounding Henderson. However, it has been reported that Liverpool has already compiled a shortlist of potential replacements.
According to journalist James Pearce of The Athletic, Liverpool’s management has identified four candidates for the midfield role. These include Romeo Lavia from Southampton, Sofyan Amrabat from Fiorentina, Ryan Gravenberch from Bayern Munich, and Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City. Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool’s manager, is said to have an interest in all four players.
Lavia has been heavily linked with a move to either Liverpool or Arsenal for several weeks, especially after Liverpool lost three midfielders on free transfers. Amrabat’s impressive performances for Morocco in the 2022 World Cup have attracted the attention of numerous top European clubs, although Manchester United are currently considered the frontrunners for his signature.
Earlier this year, Liverpool were also linked with Gravenberch, who has struggled for playing time under both Julian Nagelsmann and Thomas Tuchel at Bayern Munich. However, it appears that the young Dutch midfielder is now determined to compete for a spot in the starting lineup at the Allianz Arena rather than seek regular playing time elsewhere.
Finally, Phillips, despite a frustrating first year with Manchester City, has expressed his desire to remain at the Etihad Stadium. Speculation regarding his future arose due to limited opportunities, but the English international has publicly stated his commitment to the club.