Riding high after their successful midfield rebuild, Liverpool is now setting sights on strengthening their defensive and midfield ranks. The season-ending ACL injury of Joel Matip has intensified the need for defensive reinforcements. Concurrently, Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool’s manager, is keen on securing a top-tier holding midfielder to enhance the team’s midfield dynamics.
While Alexis Mac Allister has been effectively managing Liverpool’s midfield, Klopp views him as more suited to a No. 8 role. The summer exit of Fabinho to Al-Ittihad for £40 million has left a notable gap in the defensive midfield position. Klopp, who sought but didn’t find a replacement last summer, might revisit a previously targeted talent.
Jurgen Klopp Interest in Andre
Reports from Brazilian media outlet Globo Esporte suggest that Klopp is eyeing Fluminense‘s midfielder Andre. Despite the club’s £30 million asking price, interest in Andre has been limited. Nevertheless, Arsenal and Fulham have kept an eye on him, with Fulham particularly keen.
Fluminense seems open to selling Andre in the upcoming summer transfer window. This allows Liverpool to focus on bolstering their defense this winter. They can be secure in the knowledge that a skilled defensive midfielder could join them later in the year. Andre’s performance stats from the Brazilian league are impressive. In 31 appearances, he has maintained a 96% pass completion rate and averages 6.9 ball recoveries per game.
Moreover, he wins 70% of his dribbles and succeeds in 60% of ground duels. Thus showcasing his versatility and skills. Having played against Manchester City in the Club World Cup final, Andre demonstrated his abilities against a top team. He has expressed eagerness to play in England, believing he can significantly contribute to Klopp in Liverpool’s midfield.
Andre’s Potential Impact at Liverpool
Andre’s versatility makes him a standout midfielder for Fluminense. Talent scout Jacek Kulig has praised him as a leader for his commanding performances. In the Copa Libertadores final against Boca Juniors, Andre excelled, winning eight duels, and completing 95% of his passes.
Moreover, he made four tackles, and successfully completed both attempted dribbles, enhancing his reputation. Andre excels in passing accuracy, dribbling, and through balls. He ranks in the top 1% of midfielders in comparable leagues in key categories like pass completion and attempted passes. Thus showing his excellent ball skills.
Thiago Alcantara, a key midfielder for Liverpool since his 2020 transfer, has struggled with injuries. Jurgen Klopp is considering Andre as a potential successor with his contract ending soon. Andre’s style aligns with Thiago’s, suggesting he could raise Liverpool’s midfield to new heights.
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