Liverpool continue talks with Al Ittihad over £40M Fabinho deal

Liverpool and Saudi Arabian outfit Al Ittihad are in negotiations over a fee for Fabinho as the Reds continue their mass exodus of midfielders.

The Reds began the summer after releasing Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, James Milne and Naby Keita. Arthur Melo returned to Juventus after his one-year loan deal expired.

Since then, Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai have joined the club, boosting the quality in Jurgen Klopp's midfield ranks immediately.

What's the latest on Fabinho to Saudi?

According to Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool and Al Ittihad are discussing the key elements of the Fabinho transfer.

The Reds have given the Brazilian permission to move to Saudi Arabia but it's contingent on a fee being agree.

Liverpool want £40M - a loss of just £3.7M on the fee they paid AS Monaco in 2018.

Romano states that talks are continuing on the payment structure.

Should Liverpool let Fabinho leave?

Fabinho performed way below his potential last season and at the age of 29, there is an inherent risk in hoping he will return to his dominant best.

If the Reds can recoup £40M (91% of their initial investment), it would be a brilliant deal. However, selling Fabinho means that Jurgen Klopp would now need two new defensive midfielders in a market where there aren't many in his position for sale.

Liverpool need to be certain that if Fabinho leaves, they have the right targets lined up to replace him.

Failing to do so could undermine the excellence of Mac Allister and Szloboszai.

Getting this transfer window spot on is imperative for a club that finished fifth last season in frustrating fashion.