Liverpool can mimic last summer’s transfer approach by focusing much of their effort on one club as they look to rebuild after a dismal campaign.
Last year, it was Bayer Leverkusen who the Reds went for, with Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong both targeted as part of a major squad refresh. At that point, Xabi Alonso was already gone, meaning Liverpool could only look at his players.
This time, Bournemouth present an even more intriguing opportunity. The Cherries have two outstanding young talents on their books, while Andoni Iraola may also be there for the taking if Liverpool decide a change in the dugout is required.
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This sounds like it was aimed at Slot…
Liverpool should shop at Bournemouth this summer
FSG already appear to have an eye on the Vitality Stadium.
Liverpool have been linked with Rayan, who has made an explosive start to life in the Premier League after arriving at Bournemouth in January.
The Brazilian is exactly the sort of profile Liverpool should be looking at. He is young, fast, direct and left-footed, with the ability to play across the front line. As a long-term Mohamed Salah replacement, there is plenty to like.
They have also been watching Eli Junior Kroupi, another teenager who looks destined for the very top.
Bournemouth have warned Liverpool off Kroupi, with director Tiago Pinto insisting that he will not be sold even for €100m. That should not completely end Liverpool’s interest — statements like that are designed to protect value as much as they are to close the door.
Still, getting both Rayan and Kroupi would clearly be a huge challenge.
Bournemouth do not need to weaken themselves just because Richard Hughes knows the club well, but his history on the south coast could still give Liverpool a useful edge if talks ever open.
Then there is Iraola to factor in.
Arne Slot remains in the Liverpool job at the time of writing, but if the Reds do decide to make a managerial change, Iraola might be the best option left on the market.
His fast-paced, energetic and attacking style looks closer to Jurgen Klopp than most available coaches. And that extensive Premier League experience also makes him a safer bet than several foreign candidates.
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Just as importantly, Iraola already knows how to get the best out of Rayan and Kroupi.
Club-to-club relations can make all the difference in the transfer market. Liverpool have three obvious options at Bournemouth this summer, and perhaps opening the door to one could eventually help them land all three. Even two would be a coup.
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