Liverpool has already secured Wataru Endō from Stuttgart this summer, but with interest from Manchester United, another potential replacement for Fabinho could be available on a season-long loan.
When it became apparent that Fabinho and Jordan Henderson were departing for Saudi Arabian clubs, Liverpool urgently needed a replacement for Fabinho, specifically to fill the void at the number six position.
Fabinho had been Liverpool’s steady presence in the holding midfield role since his transfer from AS Monaco in 2018. Known for his defensive prowess, he earned the nickname ‘Dyson’ from Klopp due to his ability to recover loose balls.
Henderson was likely set to provide cover for Fabinho, but both players are now in the Middle East. Liverpool made efforts to secure replacements, targeting Roméo Lavia and Moisés Caicedo a few weeks ago, but both opted to join Chelsea.
While Wataru Endō has been signed from Stuttgart, Liverpool has limited options in defensive midfield beyond the 18-year-old Stefan Bajčetić.
In Fabinho’s absence, Alexis Mac Allister had to start in Liverpool’s opening Premier League fixture against Chelsea and played in that role until being sent off against Bournemouth. Although capable, Mac Allister is more accustomed to playing further forward, and Liverpool would prefer not to rely on him in the defensive midfield role.
Liverpool may feel they have enough options with Endō and Bajčetić, but having additional choices is always beneficial. This brings us to a noteworthy development concerning Sofyan Amrabat.
According to Italian newspaper Corriere Dello Sport (as translated by Sport Witness), Serie A side Fiorentina is willing to consider a loan deal with an option to purchase for Amrabat, as they have given up hope of securing a high fee, potentially as high as $33 million (£26 million/€30 million).
Amrabat was reportedly promised a move this summer and has no desire to stay at Fiorentina, making this an opportunity Liverpool should consider.
With just one year left on his contract, Amrabat has been on the market for a while. While Manchester United is also interested in him, he remains in Italy awaiting his next move.
Amrabat may not be a household name, but he possesses valuable qualities that make him a suitable replacement for Fabinho in English football. He is known for his industrious, experienced, and aggressive defensive style, which was evident during the World Cup where he played a crucial role for Morocco, known for their solid defense throughout the tournament.
In addition to his defensive abilities, Amrabat is proficient in possession, surpassing expectations with his passing ability. He ranked fourth in Serie A for progressive passes per 90 minutes last season, trailing only Luis Alberto, Maxime Lopez, and Stefano Sensi. He is also adept at retaining possession, completing 88.8 percent of his passes in Serie A, a rate only surpassed by Manchester City’s Rodri in the Premier League last season.
While Amrabat is 27 years old, which could explain Liverpool’s limited interest, if he is indeed available for a season-long loan, he could provide valuable additional cover and an easily accessible solution for Liverpool.