Just two days after losing 3-1 to Real Madrid in the Champions League final in Kiev, Liverpool have announced the signing of central midfielder Fabinho from the French club, AS Monaco.
Fabinho has been on many of the Premier League’s biggest team’s waiting lists. Particularly after impressing in Ligue 1 and the Champions League. It isn’t surprising that Liverpool have signed a player in this area, as it seems Emre Can will be joining Italian champions Juventus on a free transfer. The Reds are looking to strengthen in many areas this summer, with defensive positions being a priority this summer as I’m sure they aren’t in any danger of losing their attacking trio.
The Brazilian international is the second summer arrival at Anfield, with Naby Kieta joining from RB Leipzig. Liverpool acquired him in August 2017 but allowed the Guinean player to have one more season with the German club.
Fabinho will fit right into Liverpool’s midfield three, with Kieta playing just in front with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain once he recovers from his nasty knee injury suffered against AS Roma in the Champions-League semi-finals. The versatile 24- year old can either play in both right back or central midfield, but it seems he will not be doing his duties at right-back as Liverpool have Nathaniel Clyne and Trent Alexander-Arnold in that position.
Having not been selected for Brazil’s World Cup squad Fabinho has months to prepare for life in Merseyside and the style of play boss, Jurgen Klopp, will play.
In my opinion £43 million pounds for Fabinho is more than reasonable for someone of that calibre and also given the inflated fees we see in the modern era of football. Fellow Brazilians at Liverpool include Roberto Firmino and Allan (on-loan at Apollon Limassol), meaning it won’t be a tall order to fit in at Liverpool.
It is a fantastic signing for Liverpool, and you can’t blame them for signing this top draw central midfielder, for a reasonable fee too.
Fabinho’s Honours: 1x Ligue 1 Champion at AS Monaco.