How much will Carvalho transfer cost Liverpool?

James Shearman

• Updated: 20 Apr 2022 14:40 CDT
• 3 min read

Liverpool are close to announcing the transfer of wonderkid Fabio Carvalho from Championship leaders Fulham.

Jurgen Klopp's side are paying an initial £5 million for the 19-year-old attacking midfielder, who almost left west London for Anfield in the January window.

The Reds could see the fee rise to £7.5m, and Fulham are reportedly negotiating a 20% sell-on clause.

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Carvalho has already agreed personal terms, admitting he has been affected by the speculation over his future.

''I've tried not to let it affect me but I'm only human,'' he said on the official Fulham matchday programme. ''I'm obviously aware of those stories, even if it's only subconsciously. I think it has affected me a bit.

''But what I can say is that I'm determined to keep working hard for Fulham. Whenever I step out on to the pitch wearing a Fulham shirt, I will give it my all. As far as the future goes, whatever happens, happens. My focus is on the here and now.''

How good is Fabio Carvalho?

Carvalho was born in Lisbon, but represents England at youth level as he is now eligible after living in the United Kingdom for an extended period.

In May 2020, he signed his first professional contract with Fulham, and in the 2020/21 season he made his debut in a League Cup victory against Sheffield Wednesday.

A year after signing his first pro deal, he made his Premier League debut against Chelsea and a couple of weeks later scored his first senior goal in the top flight in a loss against Southampton.

In the 2021/22 campaign, he has impressed, scoring 10 goals and recording six assists in 29 league starts.

Carvalho has all the tools required to be a top performer in the number 10 position.

He is particularly talented at receiving the ball to feet in midfield with his back to goal and spinning quickly to face the other way, allowing him to drive forward into the final third.

His close control is magnificent and that allows him to play in tight spaces inside the box, too.

Indeed, the youngster will provide Liverpool with yet another attacking option, potentially allowing for the sale of Roberto Firmino.