Liverpool could be forced into making a January swoop for Genk midfielder Sander Berge after Fabinho was ruled out until at least the new year, according to the Mirror.
The Brazilian ace suffered ligament damage to his ankle during the 1-1 draw against Napoli in midweek, and his not expected to feature during the Reds’ hectic festive fixture schedule.
And this latest report also suggests that his absence could convince Jurgen Klopp to make an early move for the 6’4″ Norwegian, who has just 18 months left on his contract in Belgium and is understood to be a target for the German after impressing in the Champions League.
OPINION
If we’re being honest, this doesn’t really add up. If Fabinho was out until February, then maybe, but the fact of the matter is that Berge would be brought in just as the Brazilian was returning to action. Maybe Klopp has been inspired to bring in more cover in midfield, granted, but it does feel out of character for him to just pile into signing a player based on such a rash impulse. In the long term though, Berge could be a good signing. He’s young and physically imposing, and has averaged 1.8 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, and two clearances in the Champions League so far this season, as per Whoscored. He is far from the finished article, but Klopp is renowned for making players better, and if he could be picked up for a decent price, whether it be in January or the summer, then he could be a really sound investment.
