Liverpool are the favourites to sign highly-rated Sao Paulo defender Lucas Beraldo during the January transfer window
Liverpool are favourite to sign the highly-rated Sao Paulo centre-back Lucas Beraldo during the January transfer window. The Reds are keen on revamping their defence next year after successfully reshaping the midfield during the summer.
Standing at 1.86 metres in height, Beraldo has the physique to comfortably adapt to the physicality of the Premier League. The 20-year-old must undergo significant development to become recognized as an aerial attacking threat. However, the young Brazilian rakes up high aerial clearances defensively and dominates in aerial duel.
Beraldo is a calm and composed defender despite his very young age, the centre-back uses anticipation and timing. The 20-year-old prefers standing tackle over diving into the opponents with reckless challenges. He positions his body impressively to shield the ball and take back possession accordingly.
The Brazilian’s best attributes are on the ball as he acts as a deep-lying playmaker at times for Sao Paulo. Beraldo has brilliant passing technique and accuracy whether he is putting short passes or long ones. The 20-year-old has the ability to deliver incisive passes from the deep that can be both direct and diagonal.
Beraldo has appeared in 49 matches for Sao Paulo’s senior side already, contributing with one goal. Fichajes reported that the Brazilian has a release clause of £52m with Liverpool being the firm favourites to sign him.
Liverpool needs to bolster their defence due to fitness and performance concerns over captain Virgil van Dijk’s partner. Experienced centre-back Joel Matip’s contract expires at the end of the current season and his departure seems highly likely.
Alguns momentos do aniversariante do dia!
— São Paulo FC (@SaoPauloFC) November 24, 2023
Felicidades, Beraldo!#MadeInCotia#VamosSãoPaulo pic.twitter.com/FsOKXFc0tU
Furthermore, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez are unreliable first-choice options due to constant injury issues. The Reds have suffered an unhealthy habit of conceding the first goal in games since the beginning of the season.
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Even though, Liverpool have concerns over lacking a proper number six and poor defensive display from fullbacks. The centre-back issue might take priority during the upcoming transfer windows as they challenge for the Premier League title.
Beraldo can be a brilliant acquisition for Liverpool and develop into a worthy successor for the club’s legend, Van Dijk. Nevertheless, the 20-year-old needs time and patience given that the transition from one continent to another can be tough.
