Liverpool could make a profit by replacing Fabinho with a player ‘Pep Lijnders loves’
Liverpool midfielder Fabinho is the subject of transfer interest from Saudi Arabia, but the Reds could replace the Brazilian with Atalanta’s Teun Koopmeiners.
Liverpool’s summer transfer plans have taken an unexpected turn with the possible departure of midfielder Fabinho.
The Brazilian has attracted interest from Saudi Arabia, with Al Ittihad making a £40m bid for his services. While a deal has not been agreed, Fabinho’s departure is looking increasingly likely and as a result, Liverpool find themselves in need of a replacement who can slot straight into the starting line-up.
Several names have been linked with the Reds, including Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips, Bayern Munich’s Ryan Gravenberch, Fulham’s Joao Palhinha and Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat. Southampton’s Romeo Lavia has also been identified as a long-term replacement for Fabinho, reports the Liverpool Echo.
However, each of these options comes with its own set of challenges, be it age, lack of Premier League experience, inflated price tags or availability. But there is one player who could be the perfect solution to Liverpool’s midfield conundrum and allow them to make a profit in the process: Atalanta’s Teun Koopmeiners.
Several names have been linked with the Reds, including Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips, Bayern Munich’s Ryan Gravenberch, Fulham’s Joao Palhinha and Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat. Southampton’s Romeo Lavia has also been identified as a long-term replacement for Fabinho, reports the Liverpool Echo.
However, each of these options comes with its own set of challenges, be it age, lack of Premier League experience, inflated price tags or availability. But there is one player who could be the perfect solution to Liverpool’s midfield conundrum and allow them to make a profit in the process: Atalanta’s Teun Koopmeiners.
His ability to fit into a variety of positions would make him a valuable asset for Liverpool, especially considering Jurgen Klopp’s new 3-2-2-3 or more commonly used 4-3-2 formation. Last season, Koopmeiners showcased his skills in Italy, scoring 10 goals and providing four assists in 33 Serie A appearances.
Liverpool’s interest in Koopmeiners dates back to 2021 when they were looking for a replacement for Gini Wijnaldum. Although speculation has died down in recent months, the Reds’ reported interest in the Dutchman remains.
With a reported price of around £35m, Koopmeiners would be an affordable option for Liverpool, fitting their preferred signing profile. It would also see the Anfield club make a £5m profit on the Koopmeiners and Fabinho deals.
Koopmeiners existing relationships with Liverpool players Cody Gakpo and Virgil van Dijk could help ease his integration into the squad. The midfielder’s leadership qualities, combined with his technical ability and work rate, make him an attractive prospect for Klopp’s side.
Liverpool’s pre-season preparations are underway and they will be hoping to bounce back after a challenging season.
As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen whether Liverpool will make a strong move for the Dutch midfielder, but if they do, Koopmeiners could be the ideal replacement for Fabinho, offering both defensive stability and versatility in various positions.
