Alan Shearer has urged Liverpool to make two or three major signings this summer, highlighting Bournemouth winger Rayan as a prime target. The former England striker described Liverpool's previous season as 'pretty awful' and stressed the need for squad reinforcement.
Shearer's Verdict on Liverpool's Transfer Needs
Speaking to Betfair, Shearer said: 'Liverpool are going to have to make two or three big signings and that would start them off nicely. They were pretty awful last year, weren't they, in terms of where they wanted to be. So, they have to go out and they have to sign.'
The Reds have already spent nearly £100 million on centre-back Jeremy Jacquet and winger Victor Munoz under new head coach Andoni Iraola, who replaced the sacked Arne Slot last month. Iraola has confirmed further business is expected, with a right-winger a priority to replace the departed Mohamed Salah.
Rayan as a Key Target
Shearer specifically pointed to 19-year-old Brazil international Rayan, who worked under Iraola at Bournemouth last season after joining in January. 'That would be a big thing. They're going to have to replace Salah, aren't they, on that side. So Rayan obviously worked with Iraola last year and he's clearly going on to big things. That would be a big one for Liverpool,' Shearer said.
Premier League Title Race
Shearer believes Liverpool can close the gap on champions Arsenal, who have also been active in the transfer market. 'Arsenal have had to make big moves in the transfer market. You have to sign two or three big hitters when you're the champions because you have to freshen it up and you have to go again,' he said.
'I think the chasing pack can catch up to them next season, because all the others will do the same in the transfer window. (Manchester) City will do it and Liverpool will do it. Man United are trying to push as well. So, the others are going to spend a fortune as well. Now the World Cup's over, you'll see a lot of business starting,' Shearer added.
