Liverpool is focusing its attention on the youth ranks of Fluminense. That’s because 18-year-old Brazilian midfielder Isaque Silva has attracted the interest of European clubs and has caught the eye of the Reds.
According to the British press, Liverpool’s interest is concrete, as the English side see in the young talent several similarities with Roberto Firmino, who played for the club for eight seasons and is currently with Al-Sadd in Qatar.
Isaque Silva has stood out in Fluminense’s youth teams and impressed with his performances in the under-20s, earning him a promotion to the first team at the end of the 2024 Brazilian Championship.
According to Portuguese newspaper A Bola, he is being monitored by several clubs, but Liverpool are reportedly preparing an offer. Ge has also reported interest from Manchester City, but no official bid has been made.
International media also report that Fluminense are demanding a significant fee for Isaque, as he is considered one of Brazil’s emerging talents. The Portuguese outlet also states that while many see Isaque as Firmino’s successor, capable of playing as a false nine and possessing a “refined technique that could elevate him to an even higher level than the former international.”
But beyond comparisons, Isaque has unique qualities, one of which is his knack for being decisive. Nicknamed “Mr Finals,” the midfielder was part of the so-called “Squadron 07,” a generation that won the Under-17 Copa do Brasil and Brazilian league titles, earning his nickname after scoring in two finals.
Fluminense Negotiating Isaque’s Move to Shakhtar Donetsk
Despite Liverpool’s interest, Fluminense are reportedly moving forward with selling Isaque to Ukraine’s Shakhtar Donetsk. However, there are still some sticking points in negotiations due to demands from the Rio de Janeiro club.
According to ge, Fluminense want a higher upfront payment, primarily in fixed sums, speedy settlement, easily attainable bonuses, a retained percentage from any future sale, and a first-option clause if the player returns to Brazil.
Another negotiating hurdle is the club’s request for the player’s representatives to reduce their agency percentage, so Fluminense can increase its earnings. Despite these pending issues, the midfielder has reportedly already bid farewell to his teammates.
Isaque renewed his contract with Fluminense in February this year, which is now valid until the end of 2029. Currently, the club hold 85% of his economic rights.
In their bid to land the player, Shakhtar have already made two offers to Fluminense, both of which have so far been rejected.
The first offer was €7 million (£6.2m), and the second was €9 million (£8m). The club’s hierarchy is now waiting for a new bid, possibly coming by the end of this week.
This article was originally published on Trivela.
