Fabrizio Romano confirms that Liverpool are interested in highly-rated 21-year-old Brazilian midfielder

Highly reputable journalist, Fabrizio Romano, confirmed in his Caught Offside column that Liverpool are interested in signing Joao Gomes from Flamengo. Liverpool have monitored the 21-year-old Brazilian talent as well as other top European clubs, but have yet to start negotiations.

It's not just Liverpool that are interested, the Brazilian has expressed his interest in joining the club. He told ESPN Brasil, “Liverpool are a team I’d play for. I have the greatest desire to play."

He added, “Playing in the Champions League is my biggest dream and that of my family, my biggest dream in football.”

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With Liverpool being linked with central midfielders such as Aurelien Tchouameni and Jude Bellingham, the Reds have yet to identify a potential defensive midfield option to replace Fabinho in the future. And, Gomes could just be that player.

Gomes is very good at stopping the opponent's attacks, making the most tackles per 90 (4.5) in the Brasileirao. He also makes 1.5 interceptions per 90 and won 53% of all his duels.

Besides being a powerhouse defensively, he is excellent going forward as well. He is a tricky dribbler, getting fouled 1.7 times and making two successful dribbles per 90 in the Copa Libertadores. That means he is press resistant and will have an easy time getting himself out of tough situations.

He also likes to create chances through layoffs, completing 1.1 key passes every game. Gomes looks like a very exciting talent at such a young age, he could be a long-term Fabinho replacement once he gets too old.

Fabrizio Romano also said this about Gomes, "I think he's a very good player but he needs some steps before being ready for Liverpool level."

The Brazilian is valued at only £9M, and looks like an inexpensive option for Liverpool as they also plan to bump up their midfield with Bellingham. The Englishman will likely cost over £100m and will take up most of the transfer budget, leaving Gomez to be a hidden gem at a low price.