Reports from Saudi Arabia suggest that Fabinho’s anticipated £40m transfer from Liverpool to Al-Ittihad is now a ‘done deal’. This unexpected move has sent shockwaves through Liverpool’s midfield, which has already undergone several changes ahead of the upcoming 2023-24 Premier League campaign.
The Saudi Pro League side, based in Jeddah, expressed their interest in the Brazilian midfielder on Thursday. And it seems they have swiftly secured the deal. According to Saudi media outlet Neews Sports, Al-Ittihad has finalized the transfer, adding another twist to Liverpool’s midfield restructuring.
During the summer, Liverpool bid farewell to James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Naby Keita. Who were all released after the expiration of their contracts. In response, Jurgen Klopp has been actively adding reinforcements, with the signings of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai. Both of whom are already in pre-season training.
However, Fabinho’s potential departure comes as a surprise. As the 29-year-old signed a new long-term contract in August 2021, which was set to run until August 2026. Since joining Liverpool from AS Monaco in 2018, Fabinho has made 219 appearances for the club, playing a pivotal role in their triumphs in the Champions League, Premier League, UEFA Super Cup, Club World Cup, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup under Klopp.
Al-Ittihad manager Nuno Espírito Santo has reportedly shown a keen interest in Fabinho, following the signings of former Real Madrid star Karim Benzema and former Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante earlier this summer.
A number of Midfielders set to leave Liverpool this transfer window
In another surprising development, Jordan Henderson might also make a shock move to Saudi Arabia. As he allegedly accepted a proposal from Al Ettifaq, managed by Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard. However, the completion of the deal is contingent upon an agreement between the clubs.
While Liverpool is yet to receive a formal bid. It is worth noting that Al Ettifaq does not possess the same financial resources as Al-Ittihad. The latter is 75% under Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which also holds an 80% stake in Newcastle United.
Despite these potential departures, Liverpool might also make moves for Roméo Lavia and Khéphren Thuram this summer. If they do lose two senior midfielders, it may spark further activity in the market as they prepare to kick off their 2023-24 season against Chelsea.
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