Liverpool's £9M target has the 'greatest desire' to play for the club - could be the future of their midfield

Liverpool's £9M young target has the 'greatest desire' to play for the club and has been linked heavily with a move to Merseyside.

Flamengo's Joao Gomes is an all-action defensive midfielder and at 21, he stands as a great young talent who's on the verge of making a big move to Europe.

Despite recently signing a new deal that will keep him at the club until 2027, there's still likely to be interest in January and next summer for his signature.

His dream is to play in Europe and Liverpool may just be able to make that dream a reality should they decide to move for the young star currently lighting up South America.

Latest reports on Gomes

Speaking to ESPN, via Fabrizio Romano, he spoke about his desire to play in the Champions League and Liverpool in the future.

“Liverpool are a team I’d play for. I have the greatest desire to play. Playing in the Champions League is my biggest dream in football”

Considering Liverpool have Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, James Milner and Naby Keita out of contract next summer, Gomes could be the perfect player to come in and re-vitalise their midfield. As well as being an alternative for Fabinho, who is often overworked as the lone defensive midfielder.

With a market value of only £9M, he could be available for a lower fee but it's likely Liverpool will face competition from other top sides which could drive the price up. If he already has the Reds in mind then it could be a deal that could be made rather quickly.

Would he work at Liverpool?

Given his aggressive nature, there's no doubt the fans at Anfield would get behind Gomes - his tough, tackling approach and technical ability would shine through and at 21, he could be a perfect replacement for Fabinho long-term.

Fabinho is only 28, but currently is the only legitimate defensive midfielder at the club and he really could do with someone like Gomes who has the quality and can replicate his presence.

His potential is high and sooner or later a top club from Europe will come knocking. Considering his position, style of play and his desire to play for the club - it may be a signing that falls to Liverpool next summer.