Liverpool are entering a brave new era under head coach Andoni Iraola, with pre-season training less than three weeks away. The former Bournemouth boss inherits a squad that saw Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konate leave on free transfers at the end of the season, while new signings Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz have already arrived. Chief Liverpool Correspondent Ian Doyle answered fans' burning questions on the club's plans.
Right-back dilemma: Bradley, Frimpong, or a new signing?
Conor Bradley is highly regarded but has no timeline for return from a serious knee injury. Jeremie Frimpong's availability was inconsistent last season, and Joe Gomez's fitness was not guaranteed, forcing players out of position. Iraola faces a tough call: risk another season of disruption or sign a right-back that might hamper Bradley's return.
Fran Garcia links: Real Madrid left-back on the cheap?
Fran Garcia, who worked with Iraola at Rayo Vallecano, is reportedly available for £10m due to his expiring contract. However, after a season on the sidelines at Real Madrid, Garcia would likely want regular playing time, making a move to Liverpool as a backup to Milos Kerkez potentially unattractive for the player.
How many signings and will Yan Diomande arrive?
With Munoz and Jacquet in, Liverpool want at least one more forward, likely a winger, making four signings. Further additions depend on outgoings: Curtis Jones (target for Inter Milan, last year of contract), Wataru Endo, and Alexis Mac Allister (Real Madrid interest fading after Jose Mourinho's appointment) could leave. A centre-back signing hinges on Joe Gomez's future, and a goalkeeper change depends on Giorgi Mamardashvili's loan wishes and Vitezslav Jaros's knee recovery. Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig is a prime target, but Leipzig are playing hardball on the fee. Liverpool won't overpay after last summer's saga, so the deal looks unlikely unless Leipzig lower their asking price. However, it's only June.
Backroom staff announcements due soon
Iraola wants to reunite with Bournemouth assistants Tommy Elphick, Shaun Cooper, and analyst Tom Webber, though they remain under contract. Fitness coach Pablo de la Torre is a free agent. Thiago Alcantara has teased a coaching role on social media. Appointments will be confirmed before pre-season.
Virgil van Dijk: one-year extension or final season?
Van Dijk was Liverpool's best defender last season, adapting his game with age. Thiago Silva played for Chelsea until nearly 40, so unless Van Dijk wants a change or his legs go, extensions are likely. His experience and leadership are vital for a squad lacking those qualities.
Realistic expectations for the season
Arsenal look strong for a title defence, while Liverpool face another season of adaptation with new players and coaching staff. Champions League qualification should be considered a success. With nine weeks of the transfer window remaining, much could change. As Doyle says, "For a more considered view, ask me again at the start of September. A lot is going to change between now and then."
