Here’s how Liverpool might play next season with Andoni Iraola in charge and four new players joining the team.
Liverpool are expected to act quickly after deciding to part ways with Arne Slot, with free agent Andoni Iraola likely to be the new head coach. On Saturday afternoon, Liverpool officially let Slot go, just a year after he helped lead the Reds to their 20th league title.
The decision wasn’t too surprising, especially after Mohamed Salah made a subtle critique of Slot’s playing style in a social media post liked by several of Liverpool’s first-team players. After finishing fifth in the Premier League, Fenway Sports Group decided a change was needed — and it looks like they already have a top candidate.
Andoni Iraola, who recently led Bournemouth to their best-ever league finish, is strongly linked to the job. Journalist Fabrizio Romano said, “Liverpool’s decision is made. Negotiations will move quickly, but Iraola will be the next manager.”
Iraola’s connection with Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes, who hired him at Bournemouth, could be key as Liverpool faces a big summer of changes.
After a tough season, Liverpool will likely jump into the transfer market. Iraola, who’s used to managing great talent at Bournemouth, might influence the club’s shopping list. SPORTbible even suggested four smart signings Liverpool could make this summer.
One big priority is finding a top replacement for Mohamed Salah. Several players have been linked, like Yan Diomande and Yankuba Minteh, but with Iraola coming, a move for Brazilian star Rayan might be on the cards. The 19-year-old joined Bournemouth from Vasco da Gama in January for £24.7 million and has impressed with five goals and two assists. Liverpool have been watching him closely, but so have clubs like PSG and Real Madrid. A reunion with Iraola, who praised Rayan’s calmness and character, would make a lot of sense.
Replacing Ibrahima Konate is another priority. Liverpool signed Jeremy Jacquet in February for £55 million plus add-ons, but it’s unclear if he’s ready for regular play. A strong candidate is Nico Schlotterbeck, a top German defender at Borussia Dortmund. Journalist Florian Plettenberg recently said that Liverpool and Real Madrid are two clubs able to activate Schlotterbeck’s release clause this summer, which is around €50-60 million (£52m). But the clause expires close to the World Cup final, so Liverpool would need to act fast.
Liverpool also struggled with midfield protection this season. One player who could help is Alex Scott, a deep-lying midfielder who has stood out in the Premier League. Scott is confident on the ball and good at passing under pressure, qualities Liverpool have missed. Iraola has praised him, and it might catch Liverpool’s eye. Former player Micah Richards recently said, “He’s calm on the ball, brave to keep it moving, and always confident.”
Lastly, Liverpool will keep searching for a winger to replace Salah. Bradley Barcola, linked with a move to Anfield, would be a strong signing. The 23-year-old has scored 13 goals for PSG this season and would cost a lot, but his style fits Liverpool’s needs. Fabrizio Romano confirmed Liverpool really like Barcola, saying the winger position is a “big focus,” and they’ve been watching him since 2025, even though they spent a lot on Alexander Isak.
What do you think about these transfer ideas? Who should Liverpool try to sign this summer? Share your thoughts in the comments!