Liverpool have been keeping a watchful eye on Benfica midfielder Florentino Luis, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Speaking on the Born and Red Youtube channel, the Italian journalist said he has heard on “multiple” occasions that the Reds have been scouting the 23-year-old:

“I think this is one of the players that Liverpool have been watching in terms of scouting because I have been told multiple times that Liverpool scouts were around to follow Florentino Luis. At the moment I am not aware of any direct contact with Benfica so let’s see but I’m not sure that Benfica are open to that kind of negotiation for the clause, I think they really want big money.”

As Romano mentions, Luis does have a release clause in his contract, but it is an eyewatering €120m (£102m), which is not a figure that clubs are willing to match. Arsenal were also linked with the player in May, but they have likely been put off for the same reason as Liverpool.

A potential Fabinho replacement?

Considering that Luis is ostensibly a holding midfield player, it stands to reason that the former Portuguese Under 21 international would be targeted for the number 6 role that Fabinho currently occupies.

The Brazilian had a pretty terrible 2022/23 campaign and there are fears that, despite only being 29 years of age, he has lost his legs. Luis is likely to have been looked at as a possible replacement.

Liverpool have been considering other options

Benfica’s tough transfer stance on Luis has likely led to the Reds moving on to other targets and Southampton’s Romeo Lavia appears to be the player they have plumped for instead.

The Belgian international is still just 19 but he does have a season of Premier League football under his belt. His £50m price tag does, however, remain a stumbling block.