A new talent is said to be touring the halls of Anfield, a potential addition to Liverpool’s midfield. That whisper bears the name of Florentino Luis of Benfica.
A 23-year-old master of defensive midfield originally from Lobito, Angola; Luis seems to be the perfect response to the void that Fabinho has left in Liverpool’s midfield. But what makes it the ideal choice?Let’s dig a little deeper.
THE HEART OF RUMOR
On the recent Anfield Index Media Matters podcast, journalist Neil Jones revealed that Luis is the name to be engraved in the minds of the Liverpool faithful. Indeed, there have been rumors that LFC scouts have been present at some Benfica matches, keeping an eye on Luis and centre-back Antonio Silva.
Digging through the archives, Portuguese media outlet O Jogo previously reported on Liverpool’s curiosity about the young midfielder last October, suggesting a possible transfer is on the horizon.
WHAT DOES LUIS OFFER AT THE TABLE?
Now, when you furiously type Luis’ name on YouTube, be prepared to see a player who mirrors Fabinho’s style. Head-on tackles, sharp interceptions and an uncanny game-breaking ability are all reminiscent of a player Liverpool sorely lacked last season.
Jones described Luis’s game and provided a vivid image on his ‘Covering Liverpool’ YouTube channel:
“He’s the spitting image of Fabinho in terms of his position. A defensive midfielder who isn’t afraid to cover ground, puts down a strong foot and shows fantastic defensive ability.”
With a solid reputation for tackling and interceptions coupled with the ability to make short, accurate passes, Luis’s gameplay fits perfectly into Liverpool’s tactical puzzle.
THE PRICE PAPER DILEMMA
The million pound question, or in this case the 103 million pound question, arises: what is the potential transfer fee? After signing a new contract last October amid interest from top clubs, Luis’s release clause has been set at this colossal fee. No doubt Liverpool would be looking at a deal at a significantly lower price.
Other football giants reportedly intrigued by Luis’s potential include Man City and PSG.
A PROVEN TALENT AT A SMALL AGE
Despite his tender age, Luis has an impressive resume. With 12 Champions League appearances, four Europa League appearances and 86 appearances for Benfica, not to mention a loan spell at Monaco, his experience is impressive.
His style has been compared to that of Julian Weigl, Boubakary Soumare and Emre Can, with Fabinho taking center stage. Dominated by tackling, interceptions and passing, his strengths become apparent. He ranks among the top in pass completion, interceptions, and combined tackles and interceptions.
Without a doubt, Liverpool fans and football enthusiasts alike should keep an eye on the progress of Florentino Luis, the potential jewel of Liverpool’s midfield.
