Andoni Iraola thinking about surprise Liverpool move for Premier League player from relegated team
Liverpool are planning an exciting surprise signing as part of Andoni Iraola’s summer makeover. Iraola is about to become Liverpool’s new manager, taking over after Arne Slot was let go. He’s expected to sign a two-year deal that meets his contract wishes.
The club hopes Iraola’s fast, energetic style will win back the fans after a tough second season, which led to Slot’s early exit just a year after Liverpool’s 20th league title win. Big changes are coming at Anfield, with stars like Mo Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konate all leaving for free.
More players might leave, but there are also players Liverpool want to bring in. TEAMtalk says Liverpool are interested in Burnley defender Maxime Esteve. Esteve joined Burnley last summer for £10.3 million and stood out even though the team got relegated.
Esteve, who used to play for Montpellier, has attracted attention from Chelsea and Crystal Palace too. Liverpool like the 23-year-old and expect him to move on after just one season at Turf Moor. Burnley is ready to let him go and plans to replace him with Middlesbrough’s captain Dael Fry.
ESPN reports that Liverpool has five players on their watchlist for this summer. They really want a top winger, with RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande and PSG’s Bradley Barcola as top choices. Both seem possible to sign. West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen, who faced relegation, is also being talked about.
Inter Milan’s right-back Denzel Dumfries was briefly linked but has now agreed to join Real Madrid. Liverpool also want a midfielder who can help get the team playing well, and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton looks like a great fit.
Last season, Liverpool spent £446 million on new players but finished fifth after many new signings struggled to settle. That needs to change. Iraola will be working again with Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes, who he knows from their time together at Bournemouth.
Iraola has now arrived at Liverpool and, according to Fabrizio Romano, has officially signed a deal through 2028.