Liverpool made excellent progress in midfield evolution throughout the summer, but there was one widely linked deal that did not materialize. In the race to recruit Fluminense star André Trindade, the Brazilian club was adamant about keeping their talisman, with a focus on winning the Copa Libertadores.

Fluminense advanced to the tournament final with a win against Internacional this week, which might set up a fairytale finish for André ahead of any move to Europe in January. According to the Daily Mirror, Liverpool considers him a ‘top target’ for a move to Anfield.

That suggests that Jürgen Klopp’s midfield rebuilding is far from complete. Of course, Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister have already established themselves as vital starts for Liverpool, but that hasn’t left the Reds without questions, notably over Thiago Alcântara’s fitness.

The former Bayern Munich great suffered another injury setback in midweek as he waits to play his first competitive minutes of the season, but if he returns, the midfield landscape may change.

While Thiago is undeniably a player who can help Liverpool reclaim the Premier League crown, his recent injury record shows that cover in his role is required. André could be the right solution in this situation, with Ryan Gravenberch more suited to playing in a more advanced role.

The Brazilian would provide useful depth in the deeper play-making area, where Thiago’s minutes are likely to be limited in the future. André, who has less than a year left on his Liverpool deal, may possibly be the Spaniard’s long-term replacement.

According to FBref, André has continued to set benchmarks with his ability to keep possession and appears to be an ideal press-resistant midfielder who might continue Klopp’s midfield revolution.

The Brazilian international would join compatriot Alisson as one of the final components of a rebuild that has already seen Liverpool establish an unequaled forward sextet with the arrivals of Darwin Nez and Cody Gakpo.

However, Liverpool must maintain their lead if they are to win this one. The Copa Libertadores final will present scouts from all around Europe with an opportunity to spot the next generation of Brazilian potential.

With Real Madrid and Barcelona both going to South America for recent arrivals, the Reds must do everything they can to avoid a potential transfer hijack — especially after failing to gain control of the pursuit of Jude Bellingham last season.