Journalist: Liverpool Revive Interest in Brazilian Midfield Maestro?

Could Fluminense’s Andre Be the Midfield Solution for Liverpool?

As Liverpool navigates through the challenges of a post-Henderson and Fabinho era, the search for midfield stability continues to be a pressing issue at Anfield. One name that has resurfaced in recent discussions is Fluminense’s Andre, a player who was once linked with a move to Merseyside. Keifer MacDonald from The Echo provides an insightful analysis of why Liverpool might want to reignite their interest in the Brazilian pass master.

Liverpool’s Midfield Conundrum

The departures of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho left a significant void in Liverpool’s midfield. The Reds have since been on the lookout for a player who can bring balance and control to the heart of the pitch. While Ryan Gravenberch has stepped up to assume responsibility, there is still a feeling that Liverpool needs a deeper, more composed presence in midfield—someone who can dictate the tempo and maintain possession under pressure.

Andre could be the answer. With a pass accuracy of 94.9% in the Brazilian top flight, he’s a player who excels in ball retention, something Liverpool has missed since the exit of Fabinho. MacDonald notes that Liverpool initiated contact with Fluminense in 2023, but the Brazilian club was unwilling to part with their prized asset midway through their season. Fluminense’s president, Mario Bittencourt, was firm in his stance, saying, “I don’t sell players now, and I don’t deliver them now.” This put an end to Liverpool’s pursuit, but the door was left open for a future move.

Why Andre Fits Liverpool’s System

Andre’s skill set seems tailor-made for Liverpool’s style of play. His ability to maintain high pass accuracy underlines his composure and vision—qualities that are essential for a team that thrives on controlling the game’s pace; in the current Liverpool setup, where quick transitions and pressing are key, having a midfielder who can distribute the ball accurately and efficiently is invaluable.

Moreover, Andre’s familiarity with the demands of a competitive league like Brazil’s Serie A makes him a suitable candidate for the Premier League. As MacDonald mentions, Andre himself has expressed admiration for the Premier League, acknowledging its competitiveness and the demands it places on players. Although he’s currently focused on his career at Fluminense, the allure of a move to one of the world’s top leagues could be hard to resist.

Timing and Opportunity

Liverpool’s failure to land Martin Zubimendi earlier this month has only increased the need for a quality midfield signing. While Ryan Gravenberch has performed admirably, the need for depth and competition remains. Andre, with his passing accuracy and ability to control the midfield, could provide the perfect solution.

The January transfer window might offer Liverpool another chance to secure Andre’s services. Fluminense’s earlier stance of not selling during their season might soften, especially if the player pushes for a move. As MacDonald points out, Liverpool could reignite their interest in the Brazilian, who could seamlessly fit into their evolving midfield setup.

Statistical Analysis by Anfield Index

Andre’s Performance Data: A Deep Dive

The statistical data provided by Fbref paints a comprehensive picture of Andre’s performance over the past 365 days. With 3,030 minutes of playtime, his stats reveal a player who excels in possession and passing, which are critical components for any midfielder.

Andre’s pass completion rate is an astonishing 99th percentile, making him one of the most accurate passers among his peers. This figure is supported by his 97th percentile in passes attempted, indicating not only accuracy but also a high involvement in ball distribution. His ability to make progressive passes, where he stands in the 68th percentile, further highlights his importance in advancing play, a crucial trait for a team like Liverpool that thrives on high-tempo transitions.

Defensive Contributions and Weaknesses

When shifting focus to Andre’s defensive stats, we see a player who is active in certain aspects but has room for improvement. He ranks in the 76th percentile for clearances, showcasing his ability to contribute defensively, particularly in high-pressure situations. However, his aerial duel success rate, which is only in the 38th percentile, might raise concerns for teams relying on midfielders to dominate physically.

His tackling and interception numbers place him in the 59th percentile, indicating a balanced if not exceptional, defensive contribution. Notably, his ability to tackle dribblers stands at 61%, suggesting a solid, if unspectacular, ability to disrupt opponents.

Andre’s Role in a Possession-Based System

In possession, Andre’s data suggests he would be an excellent fit for a team that values control and ball retention. His success in progressive carries (62nd percentile) and progressive passes received (79th percentile) underscores his role as a link between defence and attack, consistently pushing play forward.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The prospect of signing Andre is exciting. The Brazilian’s passing statistics are impressive, and his ability to control the tempo of the game is something Liverpool could greatly benefit from. With the team’s current midfield options still settling, adding a player of Andre’s calibre could be the key to solidifying the middle of the park.

However, timing is also considered. Liverpool must balance integrating new players like Gravenberch and ensuring that additional signings do not disrupt the team’s chemistry. Andre, given his profile and the way he plays, could complement the current squad rather than complicate it. His arrival could provide much-needed depth, especially with the busy fixture schedule that Liverpool faces.

In conclusion, while Andre’s signing isn’t a necessity at this moment, it’s a strategic move that could pay dividends in the long run. If Liverpool can secure his services, they would be adding a player who not only fits their system but also has the potential to become a mainstay in their midfield for years to come.