By signing Andoni Iraola, Liverpool immediately shifted their focus to taking over one of Manchester United’s midfield targets.
Liverpool plan shocking hijacking of Manchester United
The Reds quickly found a replacement for Arne Slott, bringing in former Bournemouth manager Iraola. The Spaniard has a lot of work to do if he wants to raise the standards that fell at Anfield last season, but he has already charmed fans with his first interview at Anfield.
He told his supporters: “I think Liverpool gives me the chance to coach top players and top players give me the chance to fight for titles. To win the title. There is nothing more attractive than that.”
“Obviously, you can’t promise everything when you arrive at a place. You can’t make any promises. But it’s true that I understand where I’m coming from and what’s expected of me. I’m ready for the challenge.”
“I think that whatever club you arrive at, you have to prove yourself a little bit at first. You also have to earn the right to belong.”
That will be music to the ears of every Liverpool fan, and so will the reports of a possible first signing for the manager.
Portugal’s A Bola, via Sport Witness, report that Liverpool are eyeing a move for Matheus Fernandes this summer, who could take over Man United’s pursuit. The Red Devils are balked by West Ham’s £68.3m (about €80m) valuation and are unwilling to spend more than £47m (about €55m) for the midfielder.
This leaves the door ajar for Liverpool to make a move and sign Iraola’s much-needed midfield reinforcement this summer.
It remains to be seen whether the Reds will do what United have refused to do, but Fernandes is certainly one to keep an eye on.
£68m Fernandes is a huge upgrade over Mac Allister
When Slott looks back at where everything went wrong at Liverpool, he will look to his midfield. In just one season, the Reds went from being unwaveringly in control to being dominated in the middle of the park and far too unwinnable.
Fitness seemed worryingly non-existent at times, and so did intensity. Many are looking back at Jurgen Klopp’s shocking tactics.
Iraola should help turn the year around, but he needs someone to do so, and that’s where Fernandes could prove to be a great signing.
PL 25/26 | Fernandez | Mac Allister |
|---|---|---|
minutes | 3,024 | 2,662 |
tackle | 103 | 53 |
collect | 182 | 112 |
Successful duel | 55.4% | 45.2% |
An opportunity has arisen | 37 | 35 |
The numbers are particularly egregious for Alexis Mac Allister, who is likely to replace Fernandes if he arrives this summer. The Argentine national team player may be left behind in a competitive system.
Man Utd are shocked by the £20m difference in Fernandes’ valuation, but Liverpool should make the most of it and rise quickly ahead of next season.
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