Liverpool still want "expert" and "bloodhound" midfielder - he's just won a major trophy

Liverpool are reportedly keen on signing Flamengo star Joao Gomes to bolster their midfield, according to reports.

Gomes helped Flamengo to win their third Copa Libertadores final on Saturday, defeating Athletico Paranaense 1-0.

The winning goal was scored by Gabriel Barbosa, with former Chelsea defenders David Luiz and Filipe Luis in the Flamengo starting lineup.

Gomes, meanwhile, lined up in central midfield - and is seen as a key cog in the Flamengo lineup. He is excellent at winning the ball back, and is capable of carrying the ball forward and being involved in attacking moves to great effect.

The 21-year-old made 12 appearances in this year's Libertadores, providing one assist during that time.

And it appears that Liverpool are keen admirers of the midfielder.

Liverpool interested in signing Joao Gomes

According to Spanish outlet SPORT in September, Real Madrid have been keeping a close eye on Gomes as they look to find a replacement for Casemiro, who joined Manchester United in the summer.

The report alludes to the fact that Real have successfully brought in several top stars from Brazil over recent years, such as Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior and Casemiro himself.

And despite the midfielder having a contract with Flamengo until 2027 - and a release clause of €60 million - it would not put Real off from attempting a lower bid.

Nor, it is claimed, would it put off Jurgen Klopp's Reds, who are also interested in Gomes.

And speaking to ESPN earlier this month, Gomes said that Liverpool is 'a team I would play for', and named Reds star Thiago as one of his idols.

In their match ratings from the Libertadores final, AS described Gomes as an 'expert' and 'one of the great young talents in the country'.

In a country known for producing incredible talent domestically, that is certainly some praise.

And Liverpool will hope to capture the Brazilian as they aim for reinforcements following a difficult start to the Premier League season.

The Reds sit ninth, with 16 points from 12 games. They are now closer to the relegation places (five points) than the top four (eight points).

They lost 2-1 to Leeds United at Anfield on Saturday - their first league defeat at home since March 2021.

It is now three defeats in five for Klopp's side in the league, with Reds fans hoping their side can put together a run before the top division teams break for the upcoming World Cup.