5 players Liverpool could sign as the long-term solution at 'number six'

Liverpool still appear to need a long-term replacement for Fabinho, who left for Al-Ittihad during the summer transfer window.

The snubs from Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia came as a huge blow and there was a scramble to get someone in whose transfer would not cause a headache.

Although Wataru Endo was signed from VfB Stuttgart to temporarily fill the 'number six' role, it's clear that the Japan international, who will turn 31 in February, isn't one for the future.

Thiago and Stefan Bajcetic can also play in the position but neither are 'destroyers', while in recent league matches, Alexis Mac Allister has been Jurgen Klopp's preferred starter in holding midfield – a role he can perform, but one that restricts his other more attacking talents.

While attention may be focussed on reinforcing the defence and Mohamed Salah's eventual successor, the Reds' recruiters could be keeping an eye on defensive midfielders.

As the winter transfer window approaches, here are five potential candidates Liverpool may consider.

---

Andre Trindade (Fluminense)

Andre has been a crucial player for Fluminense in Brazil's Serie A and the Copa Libertadores. Despite his small stature, he possesses the physical strength and attributes needed for a modern defensive midfielder. He excels in recovering possession and is exceptional in one-vs-one battles, providing solid protection for the backline.

While Andre would come at a relatively affordable cost (around €30 million, it is to be believed), he lacks passing ability compared to other options, which may prompt Liverpool to explore more dynamic midfield players to fulfil the role – even if Jurgen Klopp would able to develop his distribution skills.

Salih Ozcan (Borussia Dortmund)

Ozcan is known for his remarkable speed, allowing him to make lightning-fast recovery runs as a 'number six'.

He rose to prominence at Borussia Dortmund in his debut season last term and aligns well with Klopp's style. Ozcan excels in a high-octane system and was among the top performers in effective counter-pressing last season, according to SciSports numbers.

He boasts impressive recovery and interception statistics, along with a superb passing range. However, despite his numbers, he does go missing in games, as has been the case in BVB side that fell short of the title in 2022/23, and given that he only made a transfer from Koln just last season, a move could pose a challenge.

Cheick Doucoure (Crystal Palace)

Although Liverpool were linked to Doucoure during the summer, the Reds were deterred by the 23-year-old's price tag, and he so remains at Crystal Palace.

Doucoure is known for favouring long passes, particularly into the final third, with made significant number of such passes last season, which was among the highest in Europe's top five leagues.

Despite his height of six feet, Doucoure is a nimble dribbler, successfully completing 80% of take-ons on average. His tackles and interceptions are impressive, too, making him a pivotal figure in Palace's ball recovery and buildup.

Doucoure embodies the old-school 'number six' role, adept at controlling midfield and thwarting attacks. But, again, it’s the fee that may see Liverpool look to other options.

Joao Palhinha (Fulham)

Bayern Munich's pursuit of Joao Palhinha fell through in the summer, something which appeared to affect him deeply.

It was a surprise, then, to see that he extended his contract with Fulham until 2028, and with no release clause attached, no less.

Palhinha has been one of Fulham's standout players and arguably their most valuable asset. Standing at 6ft 3in, he combines height with intelligence and exceptional on-the-ball skills. He made, a quite remarkable, 157 tackles last season in the Premier League, sets him apart. His long legs enable him to dispossess opponents effectively and force turnovers.

However, the new deal might see his price tag rise astronomically, while at 28, he may not have the longevity Liverpool are looking for.

Manu Kone (Borussia Monchengladbach)

Kone was first linked to Liverpool back in January, but a summer move was hindered by an injury on international duty.

He remains with Borussia Monchengladbach this season, but ongoing transfer rumours persist. Kone excels as a ball-winning midfielder. He is versatile and capable of transitioning and carrying the ball. His dribbling stats are exceptional, with 2.03 successful dribbles per 90.

He ranks among the top performers in build-up passes, even in his role as a deeper midfielder, according to SciSports data. Kone can adapt to different midfield roles, from box-to-box to deep-lying playmaker, thanks to his impressive passing range and accuracy.

He's a player Liverpool have liked for a long time and one that really makes the most sense, though whether Kone is a direct replacement for Fabinho is debatable.