Latest Liverpool news as Porto midfielder Alan Varela is linked with a move to Anfield while FSG closes in on a return for Michael Edwards and new sporting director.
Liverpool is closing in on a new hierarchy with Michael Edwards close to agreeing on a return in a new role and bringing Richard Hughes with him as the new sporting director. With that in mind, the club is also pushing ahead with summer transfer plans with a host of players being linked. Here’s your round-up of the latest Liverpool news.
FSG continues Edwards talks
Michael Edwards is close to agreeing to return to Liverpool – but in a very different role. According to The Athletic, the former Reds sporting director is increasingly likely to accept a senior role with Fenway Sports Group which would oversee club operations at Liverpool.
It is claimed the sporting director role will be offered to Richard Hughes, the outgoing AFC Bournemouth technical director, if Edwards takes the job. Edwards would take on a wider role than previously, while leaving Hughes and others on the ground to take care of day-to-day dealings.
Edwards is reported by the Daily Mail to rate Hughes highly as a negotiator. After talks between Edwards and FSG progressed this week, the Reds are finally closing in on some stability behind the scenes after Edwards’ successor Julian Ward and his replacement, Jörg Schmadtke, both stepped down in quick succession.
With things falling into place upstairs, Liverpool continues to work hard on identifying and pursuing targets ahead of the summer transfer window. It’s now been claimed the club has ‘come forward’ in the race for Porto midfielder Alan Varela.
According to Footmercato, the Argentinian will cost $77m (£60m), because Porto are demanding the full value of his release clause. He signed for the club last summer from Boca Juniors and has a contract until June 2028.
Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain also hold an interest, according to the report, but Liverpool is also in the mix as the club looks for midfield reinforcements.
Nico Williams ‘ready for transfer’
Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, linked with Liverpool as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, is ready for a summer transfer, according to HITC. They claim Williams’ representatives are informing teams he is seeking a summer move.
The 21-year-old is wanted by Aston Villa while Arsenal, Chelsea and West Ham United are also said to be keeping tabs on him. Williams has a contract until June 2027, featuring a $55m (£42.5m) release clause.
