European football journalist James Horncastle has hailed Liverpool’s signing of Fabinho as a “very good” replacement for Emre Can.
Can is expected to leave Liverpool this summer after failing to extend his contract with the Merseyside based club.
The 24-year-old’s current deal expires this week and has been closely linked with a move to Serie A giants Juventus.
Meanwhile, Liverpool struck a deal to sign Fabinho for £39 million on Monday and Horncastle believes it is a ‘very smart move.’
The arrival of Fabinho is set to coincide with the departure of Can, who is on the verge of joining Juve on free transfer.
Much like Emre Can, Fabinho can operate both in midfield and in defence.
“It will be a great signing,” Horncastle told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“Fabinho was linked with a move away, and thought he was going to get a move, last summer on the back of winning the league with Monaco and reaching a Champions League semi-final.
“I think he was told he had to stay, and unlike some of the other players he accepted that and has had a very good season.
“He would be a very good replacement for Emre Can, who is expected to leave.
“The comparison there is quite interesting because there is a player who is versatile, can play in midfield, can play as a full-back.
“So you gain two, three players for one in Fabinho so I think it’s a very smart move.”
Can played a key role in Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool side this season.
The Germany international has however been sidelined for the past month with a back injury he picked up back in March. Can did manage to recover in time for the UEFA Champions League final but didn’t start the game.
