Home Football Liverpool Targets Fluminense’s Defensive Cornerstone to Address Key Squad Weakness, Not Pursuing Andre

Liverpool Targets Fluminense’s Defensive Cornerstone to Address Key Squad Weakness, Not Pursuing Andre

Football — 12/31/2023

Liverpool Shift Focus to Fluminense Captain Nino for Defensive Reinforcement

Liverpool is adjusting their transfer targets to address defensive concerns, now setting their sights on Fluminense captain Nino, having cooled their interest in Andre Trindade. The Reds are seeking to fortify their defense amid an injury crisis that has exposed vulnerabilities in their backline.

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - NOVEMBER 4: Nino of Fluminense celebrates after winning the final match of Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2023 between Fluminense and Boca Juniors at Maracana Stadium on November 4, 2023 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Ricardo Moreira/Getty Images)

The season-ending injury to Joel Matip and the impending contract expiration of the 32-year-old defender have prompted Liverpool to reevaluate their defensive options. Jurgen Klopp has been forced to deploy versatile defender Joe Gomez on the left flank due to the absence of left-backs Kostas Tsimikas and Andy Robertson.

Despite having strong defensive options in Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and Gomez, their injury histories make them less dependable. Jarell Quansah is an emerging option, but Klopp is wary of the youngster’s need for more game management.

Nottingham Forest sinaliza ao Fluminense que pagará multa de Nino, que deixará o clube após o Mundial | fluminense | ge

Liverpool’s initial pursuit of Andre Trindade for the number six role during the summer transfer window was unsuccessful, but the Reds are content with their midfield options with the presence of Wataru Endo and Alexis Mac-Allister. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s occasional role as a deep-lying playmaker in Gomez’s absence has also provided stability in midfield.

Recent reports suggest that Liverpool is now eyeing Fluminense’s Nino to bolster their defensive lineup. Despite interest from other clubs such as AS Roma, Fulham, and Feyenoord, Liverpool is keen on acquiring the 26-year-old center-back, who led Fluminense to victory in the Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2023. With a tempting termination clause of just €7 million, Nino becomes an attractive prospect for the Reds.

Jorge Jesus indicou a contratação de Nino, do Fluminense, ao Benfica | Goal.com Brasil

Nino, a right-footed central defender standing at 1.88 meters, is known for his physical prowess in both aerial and ground duels. A crucial figure in Fluminense manager Fernando Diniz’s tactical approach, Nino excels in ball distribution, possession play, and aggressive yet well-positioned defending. Liverpool sees in Nino the qualities needed to address their defensive issues and is exploring the possibility of securing his services in the upcoming transfer window.