Fluminense midfielder Andre has spoken out about a rumored move to Liverpool or Arsenal, with two separate deals appearing in the media.
Andre, 22, is expected to be part of the next generation of Brazilian stars leaving their homeland for Europe.
But instead of trying his hand in Portugal as many South Americans do for the first time, Andre could move straight to the Premier League.
Liverpool attempted to sign the defensive midfielder as part of their extensive rebuilding plans in the summer.
However, according to the Guardian, an agreement was struck that made the change impossible.
They claim that AndrĂ© and Fluminense coach Fernando Diniz agreed at the end of 2022 that AndrĂ© would not leave the club in the summer “regardless of any club’s interest”.
The idea is that Andre will play a key role in Fluminense’s bid to win their first Copa Libertadores.
This tournament is South America’s equivalent of the Champions League and Diniz’s expectations have proven well-founded.
Indeed, Fluminense will face Argentine giants Boca Juniors in the final at 8pm UK time tonight.
However, the agreement between Andre and Diniz did not prevent Liverpool from trying their luck in the off-season, even if the Red Devils’ approaches were rejected.
Arsenal have since become a credible candidate for Andre’s signature.
The Gunners have forever been linked with a move for one or both of Thomas Partey and Jorginho in 2024.
Andre would be seen as a younger, hungrier replacement for either player.
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It was recently reported that Liverpool have reached an agreement on personal terms with Andre.
That would come ahead of a proposed decision in January.
However, if Andre’s comments to the Guardian are to be believed, talk of such a deal is premature.
Andre admitted he closely follows the Premier League, though suggested his future remains up in the air and remaining at Fluminense beyond January isn’t out of the question.
“I follow the Premier League a lot,” admitted Andre nwhen asked about his future.
“It’s a very competitive league that demands a lot from players.
But today my dream is to live day by day here in Fluminense.
“I don’t know what will happen in the future; I have a long contract at Fluminense and I really like being here.
“It’s been 10 years so this is where I feel at home.
I’m young, only 22 years old, so I don’t need to think too far ahead.
“I just have to keep doing my best, try to win this trophy and see what happens at the end of the season.
” AndrĂ©’s contract with Fluminense is expected to have a release clause of 40 million euros.
If Arsenal or Liverpool activate the clause in January, Fluminense would theoretically be unable to prevent a move.
Plus, if Andre helps Fluminense win the Copa Libertadores tonight, he might be more willing to leave his boyhood club.
