Arsenal & Fulham scouts track Brazil midfielder as they aim to hijack Liverpool’s January move

A number of Arsenal and Fulham scouts were reportedly spotted in the crowd at the famous Maracanã stadium this weekend as Fluminense famously lifted the Copa Libertadores for the first time in their history in a dramatic final against Boca Juniors.

The tournament, which is the South American equivalent to the Champions League final, attracted huge interest from some of the Premier League’s most distinguished scouts as they monitor highly-rated midfield prospect Andre Trindade of Fluminense.

Andre impressed in the final and was one of the star performers throughout the 120 minute contest for the South American champions. 

The 22-year-old has been on the radar of a number of top European clubs for several months and he even made his competitive debut for the star-studded Brazil national team earlier this year.

Andre has been a regular starter for Fluminense for four years and has already racked up over 94 league appearances, whilst also featuring in all 13 of his side's games in their road to glory in the Copa Libertadores.

The defensive midfielder was notably the subject of immense interest from Liverpool in the summer, according to South American journalist Tim Vickery, who said: “Andre nearly joined Liverpool in the last transfer window and may well make the move in the next.”

Reports from Liverpool World added that the move did not materialise in the summer due to Fluminense’s desire to succeed in the Copa Libertadores.

SportsMole added that Liverpool’s offer of around £25m was turned down in the summer, as Fluminense hope to push for a higher fee.

Liverpool have been in the market for a defensive minded midfielder since the departures of Fabinho and Jordan Henderson, but the latest news of Arsenal and Fulham’s interest suggests there could be a three-way bidding war in the winter.

Brazilian outlet ge.globo explains: “This is because the midfielder and (team mate) Tricolor have an agreement for the sale to be completed at the end of this year. Those interested are Liverpool, Arsenal and Fulham, all from England. However, he will compete in the Club World Cup in December.”

Arsenal are also in the market for a midfielder, amid reports of a potential departure for the injury-hit Thomas Partey. Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen to add a pivot to partner Declan Rice to allow his side to thrive in Europe and domestic competitions.