Liverpool’s recent decision to pass on the opportunity to sign a promising young midfielder has left a South American football expert ‘absolutely baffled’. The player in question has been compared to a young Javier Mascherano and garnered interest from Liverpool during the summer of 2023.
However, the Reds opted not to pursue the Brazilian midfielder, rated at around $44m (£34m/€40m), leading to surprise and confusion among experts and fans alike. While Liverpool initially enquired about André Trindade’s availability, the player expressed his desire to remain at his boyhood club, Fluminense, until December when the Brazilian football season concludes.
Despite this, there were expectations at the time of a potential move for André in the January transfer window, especially after his impressive performance in winning the Copa Libertadores. However, Liverpool sources have indicated that they have no plans to strengthen their midfield during this window.
Although Fulham and Atlético Madrid have been linked with André, South American football expert Tim Vickery finds it surprising that there hasn’t been more interest in a player who has continued to excel since the summer. On Sky Sports, Vickery expressed his bewilderment, stating: “I’m absolutely baffled. Even Fulham — who have been closest recently — I think that they seem to think that signing this player is not a priority. Liverpool were the club who were closest to signing him in the summer. We understand that a big money offer came in.”
Vickery highlights André’s growth and achievements over recent months, including winning the Copa Libertadores and performing well despite Brazil’s struggles. He describes the young midfielder as a central player who possesses qualities reminiscent of a young Javier Mascherano. Considering the success of Brazilian central midfielders like João Gomes and Douglas Luiz in English football, Vickery finds it surprising that there hasn’t been more interest in André during this transfer window.
Liverpool’s decision not to strengthen its defensive midfield options may be influenced by the impressive performances of Wataru Endō and Alexis Mac Allister, along with the club’s desire to provide opportunities for 19-year-old prospect Stefan Bajčetić upon his return from injury.
