Grêmio is not stopping at Róger Guedes and wants to sign Fabinho, formerly of Liverpool and currently at Al-Ittihad

Brazilian club targets former Liverpool midfielder as part of major squad overhaul

After nearing an agreement with Róger Guedes, Grêmio have now set their sights on another high-profile name: Fabinho, the former Liverpool star currently playing for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia.

The 31-year-old Brazilian is reportedly on the radar of Marcelo Marques, who is expected to lead Grêmio’s new administration. Fabinho’s arrival would mark a major statement of intent from the Tricolor, who are eager to rebuild following a disappointing 2025 season so far.

Fabinho Joins List of Midfield Targets

According to journalist Fábio Vargas, who specializes in Grêmio coverage, Fabinho has been discussed internally as a potential reinforcement. The midfielder, who won numerous titles with Liverpool, joined Al-Ittihad in 2023 on a €40 million transfer, where he currently plays alongside Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté.

His annual salary in Saudi Arabia is reportedly €14 million (around R$91.5 million), making any move back to Brazil financially challenging. Still, Grêmio sees him as a long-term target especially with other midfielders like Wendell and Arthur Melo also on the club’s shortlist for the No. 8 role.

Arthur Still the Top Priority

While Fabinho is admired, Arthur Melo remains Grêmio’s priority signing for midfield. The Juventus player who has spent time on loan at Fiorentina and Liverpool has deep ties to the Porto Alegre club and is considered more attainable due to his age and emotional connection.

Marcelo Marques hopes to bring Arthur back to Brazil as the centerpiece of his sporting project, though negotiations remain ongoing.

Róger Guedes Deal Close to Completion

Meanwhile, the club is on the verge of announcing Róger Guedes, currently at Al-Rayyan. The former Corinthians forward has reportedly accepted a lucrative offer from Grêmio, with the club working behind the scenes to finalize terms.

The addition of Guedes would provide a significant attacking boost for Mano Menezes’ struggling squad, which was eliminated from the Copa Sudamericana by Alianza Lima and currently sits mid-table in the Brasileirão.

Grêmio’s Ambitious Rebuild Strategy

The potential arrivals of Róger Guedes and Fabinho, along with the pursuit of Arthur, signal a bold new phase for Grêmio. The club hopes to return to continental prominence under a new sporting direction and reverse its fortunes in domestic competition.

Next up, Grêmio will face Palmeiras at Allianz Parque on July 26, a crucial match that could define Mano Menezes’ short-term future with the club.