Liverpool's pre-season preparations for the 2026/27 campaign are underway, with new head coach Andoni Iraola overseeing the squad at Anfield. The 43-year-old Spaniard, who succeeded Arne Slot in June, has already secured two new signings: centre-back Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes for £60 million and Spanish winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna for £34.5 million.
Despite these additions, the Liverpool hierarchy faces pressure to strengthen further after a disappointing season. A key priority is rebuilding a midfield that struggled for consistency. Iraola's high-intensity system requires fresh legs, and the club is linked with several targets.
Manu Kone Interest Revived
Liverpool's pursuit of Roma midfielder Manu Kone has resurfaced, years after initial links during Jurgen Klopp's tenure. According to Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport, the Premier League club is keen on the 25-year-old Frenchman, who is currently representing France at the World Cup.
Roma faces financial pressures, needing to generate £42 million (€50 million) to comply with UEFA's financial fair play requirements. Atletico Madrid had been optimistic about signing Kone for £38 million (€45 million), but Roma increased the asking price to £51 million (€60 million) after UEFA granted a one-month extension on their July 1 deadline.
Liverpool's midfield endured significant declines last season, with Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch struggling for form. Kone's arrival could provide the dynamism Iraola demands.
Curtis Jones Transfer Speculation
Curtis Jones' future remains uncertain as the 25-year-old midfielder attracts interest from Inter Milan. The Serie A champions reportedly had a £27 million bid rejected last month, with Liverpool valuing Jones at £35 million. Inter has since made a fresh approach via intermediaries, according to Ben Jacobs.
Jones has one year left on his contract, and with the World Cup ending on Sunday, transfer activity is expected to accelerate. Iraola expressed his desire for Jones to stay at Anfield, stating: I will have the chance to speak with him today. I rate Curtis very highly. For me, he is a great, great player, and I hope he can continue with us and continue performing the way he has been performing. It's very important that he's Scouse, that he's from here.
He added: I also like the personality. From the outside, at least, he looks like a player with good character, and I hope we can keep him, not only for this year but for more time.
Liverpool's transfer business is expected to ramp up as the World Cup concludes, with Iraola keen to finalize his squad for the season ahead.
