Liverpool are eyeing a potential replacement for Fabinho in the form of Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia.
The 19-year-old has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, including Chelsea and Arsenal, but Liverpool seems to be leading the race.
Can Lavia Replace Fabinho?
Lavia’s playing style as a defensive midfielder could address the deficiencies in Liverpool’s midfield operations.
His impressive statistics from last season, such as a higher successful take-on rate and better-tackling percentage than Fabinho, highlight his potential impact.
The Saints sensation beat Fabinho in his successful take-ons rate (56% v 46.7%) and percentage of dribblers tackled (39.6% v 38.7%), according to FBref, despite being only 19 years old and having far less experience.
Furthermore, during the past 12 months, the Manchester City academy product, who was called “sensational” by journalist Lewis Steele, has completed more tackles per 90 (2.43) than Fabinho (2.13) has, as well as more interceptions and blocks (1.34 vs. 1.25) and (1.90 vs. 1.25) respectively.
Price Tag Challenge
The major obstacle in Liverpool’s pursuit of Lavia is Southampton’s £50 million asking price.
However, the Reds are considering offering players in exchange or adding performance-based add-ons to bridge the gap.
Although sending players to a Championship club like Southampton may seem like a downgrade, it presents an opportunity for Liverpool’s talented youngsters to gain valuable experience and help the Saints in their promotion campaign.
Liverpool Eyeing Lavia: Defensive Midfield Solution
Journalist Ben Jacobs believes that Liverpool will aim to secure Lavia for a price closer to £40 million, taking advantage of Southampton’s relegation.
Lavia’s distinct qualities as a defensive midfielder make him an intriguing prospect for Liverpool, complementing the attacking strengths of recent signings Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai.
Liverpool’s Transfer Plans: Lavia and Defense
However, Liverpool will negotiate the deal on their own terms and timeline, as they have done in previous transfers.
Looking ahead, Liverpool may also prioritize strengthening their defense, with Chelsea’s Levi Colwill emerging as a potential target.
The Reds may face competition from Chelsea and Brighton & Hove Albion for the promising English defender.
Additionally, there could be potential departures from Liverpool, as Thiago Alcantara has attracted interest from various clubs, including those in the Saudi Pro League, while Al-Ettifaq, managed by Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, has shown interest in signing Jordan Henderson.
The signing of Romeo Lavia would be a significant move for Liverpool in their pursuit of building a talented squad capable of competing for multiple trophies. It could potentially mark the end of Fabinho’s reign at Anfield if he cannot match Lavia’s output in the defensive midfield position.
Liverpool will continue to assess their options and proceed with transfers that align with their strategy and financial considerations.
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