Liverpool are reportedly closing in on securing the services of Bournemouth’s technical director, Richard Hughes. Upon his potential arrival, he would immediately be tasked with addressing three key priorities.
With Michael Edwards’ deal already secured, Liverpool’s attention turns to acquiring a sporting director. Richard Hughes emerges as the likely candidate to join ahead of the upcoming season, as FSG emphasises bolstering infrastructure in preparation for Jürgen Klopp’s eventual departure.
As Hughes prepares to officially join the club, he will undoubtedly focus on his first tasks, which include appointing a new manager. Additionally, he must address two key priorities to ensure a smooth start to the summer. These priorities encompass resolving crucial contract situations and addressing interest in Liverpool’s top attacker.
With his departure from Bournemouth already confirmed, Hughes’ arrival at Liverpool is anticipated to proceed seamlessly. His impressive track record adds to the optimism surrounding his appointment. Here are the three priorities Liverpool’s new sporting director needs to handle first.
Decide on the Next Manager
Before addressing any other concerns, Liverpool’s priority lies in securing its next manager. The prevailing desire among the majority of fans is for Xabi Alonso to fill that role. While arguments may arise in favor of other candidates like Rúben Amorim, only one option resonates with me.
What lends credence to the Xabi Alonso speculation is his apparent lack of explicit dismissal of the possibility. This stands in stark contrast to what one might expect if they were supporters of Bayer Leverkusen.
With each passing day, Leverkusen’s resignation to Alonso’s departure at the end of the season becomes more apparent. However, the Bundesliga outfit may not be overly disheartened, especially considering their imminent league title triumph and the potential prospect of a Europa League final clash with Liverpool.
Richard Hughes could kick off his tenure on a high note by securing Alonso’s services ahead of Bayern Munich, another club reportedly interested in the Spaniard.
Although the prospective new sporting director’s hands are tied until the season’s conclusion, it’s worth acknowledging that Alonso’s availability hinges on the culmination of his obligations with Bayer Leverkusen.
Renew Virgil van Dijk’s Deal
Virgil van Dijk needs a new long-term deal. His current contract will have just one year remaining in the summer, and his exceptional form this season may attract interest from other clubs eager to secure his signature.
Trent Alexander-Arnold is also in a similar position, but there seems to be less concern surrounding his contract situation, especially considering his potential to become the club captain in the future.
There’s a possibility that clubs like Paris Saint-Germain or Real Madrid could make enticing offers to van Dijk, potentially increasing his salary. However, if Liverpool can present him with a suitable offer, he may opt to extend his stay at Merseyside.
Keep Mohamed Salah
The upcoming summer heralds the return of the Saudi Pro League’s interest in Mohamed Salah, with the added leverage of Salah nearing the end of his current contract. Liverpool face significant setbacks in the event of Salah’s departure, potentially disrupting their trajectory for several years.
Moreover, Salah’s decision impacts the club dynamics, influencing the choices of other players regarding their tenure at Liverpool.
Given his aspirations to further excel in English football and his capacity for influence on the field, Salah may find the current football standard in Saudi Arabia less appealing, unlike Cristiano Ronaldo, who has ventured into different phases of his career.
Despite Salah’s importance, a substantial offer of $190 million (£150 million/€175 million) must be acknowledged by the club, although personally, I advocate for retaining him through a renewed three-year contract.
As FSG strengthens its off-field operations by augmenting Michael Edwards’ support staff, focus inevitably shifts towards Liverpool’s first-team roster. With effective decisions, the club can usher in a new era of dominance under any new managerial leadership.
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