Liverpool are set for a significant overhaul of their midfield, with Andoni Iraola expected to succeed Arne Slot as head coach. The 43-year-old Basque is likely to introduce a 4-2-3-1 formation, replicating his approach at Bournemouth, which emphasises high intensity, relentless pressing and direct attacking play. This season, the Reds' engine room was frequently overrun, with players appearing fatigued and disengaged, prompting a fundamental restructure.
A priority will be the signing of a dedicated holding midfielder, a position that has not been adequately addressed since Fabinho's departure in July 2023. Ryan Gravenberch impressed as a No.6 during the 2024/25 title-winning campaign under Slot, but has struggled this season, leaving Liverpool vulnerable. Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton has been mooted at a valuation of around £100m, while Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni is also reportedly under consideration, though both would require substantial investment.
Iraola is expected to turn to Alex Scott, whom he previously coached at Bournemouth. The 22-year-old has impressed with his agility and progressive passing, and could form a double pivot alongside Gravenberch, offering attacking players more time and space. Bournemouth are said to be keen to keep Scott, but Liverpool face competition from Manchester United and Chelsea. Scott would represent an upgrade on Alexis Mac Allister, whose form has dipped.
In the revamped midfield, Dominik Szoboszlai would move from a utility role at right-back to a more advanced position, where his long-range shooting and pressing abilities can be utilised. Florian Wirtz, a £116m signing last summer, has shown glimpses of quality but often appeared uncomfortable. He excelled for Germany against Finland in a World Cup warm-up on Sunday, scoring and dictating play from the left in a 4-2-3-1 system. Iraola would afford him similar freedom, allowing him to supply forwards such as Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike.
Curtis Jones, who has been linked with a departure, should be retained, with Iraola likely to value his ball-carrying ability. Keeping Jones would probably mean Wataru Endo leaves, despite the Japanese midfielder's return to international duty and his popularity at Anfield.
