Journalist: Liverpool to ‘Open Talks’ with £45m Midfielder Over Potential January Move | OneFootball

Liverpool Target £45m Play Breaker: Could Ederson dos Santos Be the Key to Arne Slot’s Midfield?

Liverpool’s stellar form under Arne Slot continues to make headlines. The Reds are thriving both domestically and in Europe, with a commanding performance against Real Madrid in the Champions League underscoring their resurgence. Despite their strong start, discussions around squad reinforcements remain lively, with Brazilian defensive midfielder Ederson dos Santos emerging as a significant target.

Slot’s Liverpool: Dominance with Room to Improve

Arne Slot has overseen an impressive transformation at Liverpool since taking the reins in May 2024. With just a handful of points dropped in the Premier League and a flawless Champions League record, the team has rediscovered its relentless edge. But even in a team packed with quality, there are whispers of strategic additions to solidify their claim to silverware.

Photo: IMAGO

Rudy Galetti reports that Liverpool have reopened negotiations for Ederson dos Santos. The £45m-rated Brazilian, currently at Atalanta, was linked with the Reds in the summer, but the move failed to materialise. Now, with contact made with his representatives, Liverpool are gearing up to reignite their pursuit.

Galetti explains, “Atalanta are currently fifth in the Champions League and second in Serie A and do not intend to sell him in January.” However, summer could present a more realistic opportunity for Liverpool to pounce.

Why Ederson Could Be the Missing Piece

Liverpool’s midfield has performed admirably this season, with Ryan Gravenberch adapting well to the defensive midfield role. Yet, as Galetti points out, Gravenberch, “the former Ajax boy, is not a natural play breaker.” His forward-thinking tendencies could flourish further with a player like Ederson anchoring behind him.

Known for his combative style and exceptional game-reading ability, Ederson could be the ideal “blue-collar” worker in Slot’s high-pressing system. His presence would allow more creative midfielders like Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai to exploit their attacking instincts without sacrificing defensive solidity.

Ederson’s current form at Atalanta reinforces his value. Playing a pivotal role in both Serie A and the Champions League campaigns, the 24-year-old has proven himself on some of football’s biggest stages. If Liverpool can meet Atalanta’s valuation, he could bring much-needed depth and dynamism to the squad.

Photo: IMAGO

Potential Hurdles in Securing Ederson

The road to securing Ederson won’t be without its challenges. Atalanta are enjoying a successful season and are unlikely to part with a key player mid-campaign. Liverpool may also face competition from other European giants if Ederson becomes available next summer.

Nonetheless, Liverpool’s proactive approach—already establishing contact with Ederson’s camp—signals their determination to stay ahead in the race. If the Reds can make their case compelling enough, the Brazilian might soon find himself donning the iconic red jersey.

Statistical Analysis by Anfield Index

Ederson dos Santos has been a standout performer over the last 365 days, as shown in this detailed radar chart provided by Fbref. The data illustrates his all-round contributions in attacking, possession, and defensive phases, cementing his reputation as a versatile midfield operator. Below, we break down the key insights from his performance data.

Defensive Strengths Highlight Ederson’s Core Role

Ederson’s defensive numbers stand out immediately, with 92nd percentile rankings in tackling dribblers and 83rd percentile in aerial duels. These metrics underline his strength as a ball-winning midfielder who thrives in breaking up opposition play. His positioning and anticipation are further emphasised by high block and interception rates, making him an ideal candidate for a system reliant on defensive discipline.

Ball Progression and Passing Efficiency

In possession, Ederson demonstrates proficiency, with his progressive passing ranked in the 76th percentile. While his pass completion percentage (54th percentile) appears modest, it reflects his willingness to attempt ambitious passes to advance play. His 63rd percentile ranking for progressive carries indicates his ability to drive forward with the ball, offering a dual threat in possession.

Attacking Contributions Provide Additional Value

Although primarily a defensive midfielder, Ederson’s attacking stats are impressive. His non-penalty goals place him in the 63rd percentile, showcasing his knack for contributing in advanced areas. Furthermore, his expected assisted goals (xAG) rank at 60th percentile, highlighting his ability to create chances when given the opportunity.

Final Verdict

Ederson’s data paints the picture of a complete midfielder capable of excelling in a high-pressing, dynamic system like Arne Slot’s Liverpool. With his defensive acumen and progressive capabilities, he could add significant value to the squad. Credit to Fbref for the comprehensive statistical breakdown.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As Liverpool fans, the prospect of signing Ederson dos Santos is tantalising. Slot’s system demands precision and balance, and while Gravenberch has been excellent, he’s not a specialist in breaking up play. Ederson could offer a level of grit and discipline that complements the flair already thriving in midfield.

Imagine a midfield trio of Ederson, Gravenberch, and Szoboszlai—one player breaking up opposition attacks, one dictating tempo, and another driving the team forward. It’s a combination that could dominate games against Europe’s elite while maintaining Liverpool’s aggressive identity.

However, there’s a pragmatic side to consider. Atalanta’s reluctance to sell mid-season is understandable, and the summer window seems like a more realistic time for a move. That said, Liverpool’s decision to engage early with Ederson’s representatives is a smart play—it could give them the upper hand when the bidding war begins.

One thing is clear: Slot’s Liverpool aren’t just about immediate success; they’re planning for sustained dominance. Securing Ederson would be a statement of intent, reinforcing the idea that Liverpool are building not just to compete but to conquer.