Liverpool Transfer News: Reds Must Act Fast to Sign Porto's Fernando

Liverpool have been linked with a move for Porto midfielder Fernando, but they must move quickly to sign the player.

A report by Ben Jefferson in the Daily Express suggests that the player is also being courted by Napoli, Manchester United and Everton.

But there is also the offer of a new contract on the table, something the player's agent claims is inviting:

"

We've come to an agreement with Porto.

The only thing that is missing are the details. Once they're agreed we'll sign.

"

Primarily a defensive midfielder, Fernando's role in the Liverpool side would likely be to break up attacks, act as a shield for the defence and allow the creative players to express themselves knowing they have a reliable stopper behind them.

Liverpool have conceded 26 goals in 21 Premier League games so far this season, the worst defensive record of the top seven teams, per BBC Sport.

They have also kept six clean sheets, the eighth-best record in the Premier League, via ESPN FC, so there is clearly room for improvement in Brendan Rodgers' squad.

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The closest player to Fernando in the current Liverpool set-up is another Brazilian, Lucas, who has made 20 appearances this season, but he is not so crucial to the side that he couldn't be improved or upgraded.

However, Lucas has been capped 24 times by the Brazilian national side, while Fernando has not earned international recognition.

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Liverpool could definitely put a player such as Fernando to great use, but it is not certain that the Porto man is the best option available to them.

Although his contract is up next summer, possibly allowing the Reds to make a reduced offer for his services, he is not in the same league as the likes of Yaya Toure or Ramires, which is what Liverpool must aspire to if they are to continue to improve.

Ben Burrows in the Mirror links Napoli's Gokhan Inler with a move to Anfield, but the 29-year-old is not likely to offer a long-term solution either.

A move for a player like Fernando would make sense for Liverpool; however, there may be better value available to a club enjoying such a fine season.