The Kopite View

Liverpool have already enjoyed a busy summer.

Several key players have departed, new faces have arrived, and Andoni Iraola has begun putting his stamp on the squad.

Yet despite all the changes, one question continues to divide supporters.

Which position should Liverpool prioritise before the transfer window closes?

There are arguments for almost every area of the team.

But some positions clearly require more attention than others.

Centre-Forward

For many supporters, this is now the most urgent priority.

With Hugo Ekitike facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, Liverpool’s options through the middle suddenly look much thinner.

Alexander Isak is an outstanding striker, but asking him to shoulder the burden across a full Premier League and Champions League campaign is a risk.

If Liverpool genuinely want to compete on every front, another centre-forward would provide vital competition and cover.

Centre-Back

The departure of Ibrahima Konaté has left a significant gap.

Jeremy Jacquet has arrived with enormous potential, but he is still only 20 years old and adapting to a new league.

Virgil van Dijk remains one of the world’s best defenders, but at 35 Liverpool cannot afford to rely on him playing every minute of every competition.

Adding another experienced centre-back would strengthen both the present and the future.

Right-Back

Jeremie Frimpong is expected to be Liverpool’s first-choice right-back.

However, with Conor Bradley still recovering from injury, depth is a concern.

Joe Gomez can fill in when required, but Liverpool have been linked with players such as Djed Spence and Givairo Read for a reason.

Another specialist option would give Iraola greater flexibility throughout a demanding season.

Defensive Midfielder

Liverpool continue to be linked with names such as João Gomes, Manu Koné and Kaishu Sano.

While Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister are excellent footballers, neither is a natural ball-winning number six.

A specialist defensive midfielder could add balance to the side and allow Liverpool’s more creative players greater freedom further forward.

Right Wing

Replacing Mohamed Salah was never going to be straightforward.

Liverpool have been linked with Bradley Barcola, Rayan, Yankuba Minteh and several other wide players.

Could Dominik Szoboszlai or Rio Ngumoha fill the role?

Possibly.

But if Liverpool want a long-term specialist successor to Salah, another right winger still feels like an important objective.

So What Comes First?

If I had to rank Liverpool’s priorities, I would go with:

1. Centre-forward

2. Centre-back

3. Right winger

4. Defensive midfielder

5. Right-back

The injury to Ekitike changes everything.

Goals win football matches, and Liverpool simply cannot afford to leave themselves short in the one position where depth is already being tested.

Plenty of Work Still to Do

Liverpool’s squad is undoubtedly stronger than it was a few months ago.

Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez and Jeremy Jacquet have all strengthened the team in different ways.

But title-winning squads are built on depth as much as quality.

Andoni Iraola will want options in every department if Liverpool are to challenge Manchester City, Arsenal and the rest across four competitions.

The transfer window is far from over.

The question is no longer whether Liverpool need more signings.

It’s deciding which position simply cannot wait any longer.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool supporters may have received another major boost ahead of the new season, with reports claiming that Dominik Szoboszlai has reached an agreement in principle over a new contract at Anfield.

According to Indykaila News, the Hungarian midfielder is close to committing his long-term future to Liverpool, with an agreement reportedly in place pending the completion of formalities.

While the club has yet to make an official announcement, the report will undoubtedly be welcomed by Reds supporters.

A Key Figure in Liverpool’s Future

Since arriving at Liverpool, Szoboszlai has established himself as one of the club’s most influential midfielders.

His energy, leadership and technical quality have made him a vital part of the team, and at just 25 years old, he is entering what many consider to be the prime years of his career.

His ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch makes him an ideal fit for Andoni Iraola’s demanding style of football.

Reward for Outstanding Performances

Szoboszlai’s performances over the past season have reinforced his importance to Liverpool.

Whether driving forward with the ball, pressing aggressively or producing moments of quality in the final third, he has become one of the first names on the team sheet.

His recent displays for Hungary at the World Cup have only strengthened his reputation, showing once again that he can perform under the highest level of pressure.

Stability Is Crucial

Liverpool have faced criticism in recent years over several high-profile contract situations.

With uncertainty surrounding a number of senior players, tying down one of the club’s core midfielders would represent an important piece of business.

A new deal would provide stability and send a clear message that Liverpool are determined to keep the spine of the squad together as they build under Iraola.

A Midfield Built for Success

Liverpool’s midfield already looks one of the strongest in the Premier League.

With players such as:

● Florian Wirtz

● Alexis Mac Allister

● Ryan Gravenberch

● Stefan Bajčetić

● Trey Nyoni

alongside Szoboszlai, the Reds appear well equipped for the seasons ahead.

Keeping the Hungary captain at the heart of that group would only strengthen Liverpool’s long-term project.

Awaiting Official Confirmation

As things stand, supporters should treat the report with a degree of caution until Liverpool officially confirm any agreement.

However, if the information proves accurate, it would represent another significant positive during an important summer for the football club.

Few players better embody the intensity, commitment and ambition Liverpool want to build around under Andoni Iraola.

Securing Dominik Szoboszlai’s future would be a statement that one of the club’s brightest stars is committed to helping lead Liverpool into its next chapter.

Source: Indykaila News

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool’s search for a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah appears to be gathering pace, with fresh reports linking the Reds to Bournemouth winger Rayan.

According to Graeme Bailey for TEAMtalk, Liverpool have made enquiries about the Brazilian as they continue assessing attacking options ahead of the new season.

The report also claims that Rayan is a player who has already been discussed with new head coach Andoni Iraola, suggesting the Liverpool manager is fully involved in shaping the club’s recruitment plans.

Another Exciting Young Talent

Rayan has quickly emerged as one of the most exciting young wingers in the Premier League.

Although still developing, he has impressed with his pace, direct running and confidence when taking on defenders.

His key attributes include:

● Explosive acceleration.

● Excellent dribbling ability.

● Direct attacking play.

● High work rate.

● Strong potential for further development.

It is easy to understand why Liverpool’s recruitment team are monitoring him so closely.

A Familiar Face for Iraola

One factor that makes this link particularly interesting is Andoni Iraola’s connection with the player.

Having worked with Rayan at Bournemouth, Iraola already knows exactly what he can offer.

That familiarity reduces much of the uncertainty that often surrounds transfer targets.

Rather than relying solely on scouting reports, Liverpool’s head coach has first-hand knowledge of the winger’s strengths, mentality and ability to cope with the demands of Premier League football.

The Search for Salah’s Successor

Replacing Mohamed Salah remains one of Liverpool’s biggest long-term challenges.

No single player can replicate everything the Egyptian brought to the club over so many years.

Instead, Liverpool appear to be evaluating a range of different profiles capable of contributing in different ways.

Rayan joins a growing list of attacking players linked with the Reds this summer as the club looks to build an attack capable of thriving under Iraola.

Why Liverpool Like Him

Liverpool have consistently targeted players with significant upside rather than waiting until they become established superstars.

Rayan fits that strategy perfectly.

He is still young enough to improve considerably while already possessing the athleticism and technical ability required to make an impact at the highest level.

If developed correctly, he could become one of the Premier League’s standout wide forwards.

Plenty Still to Happen

At this stage, Liverpool have only made enquiries.

There is no suggestion that negotiations are advanced or that a transfer is close.

However, the fact that the player has reportedly been discussed directly with Iraola indicates genuine interest rather than simple speculation.

With several weeks still remaining in the transfer window, supporters should expect Liverpool to continue assessing multiple attacking options before making a final decision.

If Rayan is indeed one of Iraola’s preferred targets, this is certainly a story worth watching as Liverpool continue planning for life after Mohamed Salah.

Source: Graeme Bailey / TEAMtalk

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen believes the Reds should make a serious move for Jarrod Bowen, insisting the West Ham captain would be the ideal player to strengthen Liverpool’s attack this summer.

Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Owen did not hold back in his assessment.

“Jarrod Bowen’s just crying out. I mean, there’s no risk. He’s brilliant. He’ll score plenty of goals… Liverpool are desperate. They need somebody like him and I’d go and get him.”

It is a strong endorsement from someone who knows exactly what it takes to succeed at Anfield.

A Ready-Made Premier League Star

Unlike many of the players Liverpool have been linked with this summer, Bowen would arrive as a proven Premier League performer.

Season after season, he has delivered goals and assists despite playing in a West Ham side that has rarely challenged for the biggest honours.

His qualities are well established:

• Clinical finishing.
• Intelligent movement.
• Excellent work rate.
• Versatility across the front line.
• Big-game experience.

For a Liverpool side looking to replace the output of Mohamed Salah, those attributes are extremely attractive.

Why Bowen Fits Liverpool

One of Bowen’s biggest strengths is his consistency.

He may not generate as many headlines as some of Europe’s younger stars, but he rarely goes through long periods without contributing.

He also works tirelessly without the ball, something that would suit Andoni Iraola’s demanding style of football.

Bowen has shown throughout his career that he is willing to press, track back and sacrifice himself for the team.

That mentality is something Liverpool have always valued.

The Salah Question

Replacing Mohamed Salah was never going to be easy.

Liverpool have been linked with exciting young wingers such as Bradley Barcola and Yan Diomande, but Bowen offers something different.

He is already proven.

He understands the Premier League.

And he would require very little adaptation time.

While he is not a like-for-like replacement for Salah, he could immediately add goals, experience and reliability to Liverpool’s attack.

The Transfer Wouldn’t Be Easy

Of course, signing Bowen would be far from straightforward.

West Ham are unlikely to want to lose their captain and one of their most influential players.

Any deal would almost certainly require a substantial transfer fee.

Whether Liverpool would be prepared to make that investment remains to be seen.

Owen Makes a Strong Case

Michael Owen’s comments will certainly resonate with many supporters.

While much of the transfer speculation has focused on younger players with huge potential, Bowen represents the safer option.

As Owen suggested, there is very little uncertainty about what he would bring.

He has already demonstrated his quality in England’s top flight.

Should Liverpool Make Their Move?

Supporters will no doubt be divided.

Some will prefer Liverpool to invest in younger talent with greater long-term potential.

Others will agree with Owen that Bowen is exactly the type of experienced Premier League attacker who could make an immediate difference.

One thing is certain.

If Liverpool want a player who guarantees effort, goals and proven quality, Jarrod Bowen deserves to be part of the conversation.

Source: @LivEchoLFC

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Curtis Jones has become one of the most talked-about Liverpool players of the summer.

With Chelsea now joining Inter Milan, Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa and Newcastle United in showing interest, the Liverpool academy graduate is attracting attention from across Europe and the Premier League.

Despite the growing list of admirers, one person is hoping Jones stays exactly where he is.

Andoni Iraola.

Iraola Wants Jones to Stay

As previously reported, Liverpool’s new head coach views Jones as an important part of his plans for the upcoming season.

Iraola is understood to value the midfielder’s versatility, technical ability and work rate, believing he can play a significant role in the aggressive, high-intensity football he wants to implement at Anfield.

Rather than viewing Jones as a squad player, Iraola reportedly sees him as someone capable of making a genuine contribution throughout the campaign.

More Talks Planned

Liverpool expect further approaches before the transfer window closes.

While Jones remains open to considering his future, Iraola is expected to hold additional discussions with the player in an effort to convince him that his long-term future belongs at Liverpool.

Those conversations could prove decisive.

A new manager often changes a player’s outlook, particularly when promises of greater responsibility are on the table.

Five Clubs Interested

Jones certainly isn’t short of options.

Current interest reportedly includes:

• Chelsea
• Inter Milan
• Nottingham Forest
• Aston Villa
• Newcastle United

That level of interest reflects the quality Liverpool already possess.

At 25 years old, Jones is entering what should be the prime years of his career and remains one of England’s most technically gifted midfielders.

Liverpool’s Valuation

Liverpool are in a strong negotiating position.

Jones remains under contract, and reports suggest the club value him at around €40 million.

The Reds are under no pressure to sell and would only consider a departure if the right offer arrived and Jones decided he wanted a new challenge.

That gives Liverpool control over the situation.

What Happens If He Leaves?

One interesting aspect of the report is Liverpool’s contingency plan.

If Jones ultimately decides to move on, the club would almost certainly enter the market for another midfielder.

That suggests Liverpool do not currently feel the need to strengthen in midfield while Jones remains part of the squad.

His departure would change that calculation completely.

A Big Decision Awaits

Few academy graduates have shown the patience Jones has during his Liverpool career.

He has waited for opportunities, battled through injuries and consistently demonstrated his commitment to the club.

Now he faces perhaps the biggest decision of his career.

Stay and fight for a place under a manager who clearly rates him.

Or accept a fresh challenge elsewhere.

A Player Worth Keeping

From Liverpool’s perspective, the ideal outcome appears clear.

Iraola wants Jones to stay.

The club value him highly.

And Liverpool would only replace him if he left.

That alone says plenty about how important they believe he could become.

The coming weeks may determine whether Curtis Jones remains part of Liverpool’s future—or begins a new chapter elsewhere.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Football has a habit of creating memorable moments.
During England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina, Jordan Pickford appeared to enjoy one such moment when he denied Alexis Mac Allister with an excellent save from the Liverpool midfielder’s header.
Cameras also appeared to capture Pickford smiling in Mac Allister’s direction after the stop, a moment that quickly attracted attention on social media given the long-standing rivalry between Everton and Liverpool.
At that stage, England were still leading and looked on course for the World Cup final.
By the end of the evening, however, the story had changed completely.

Mac Allister Ends the Night Celebrating
Argentina produced a dramatic late comeback to win 2–1, overturning England’s lead with two goals in the closing minutes.
While Mac Allister did not get on the scoresheet, he once again played an important role in Argentina’s midfield as the reigning world champions fought back to book their place in Sunday’s final against Spain.
The Liverpool midfielder now finds himself just one victory away from another World Cup winners’ medal.

Football Can Change Quickly
Moments that seem significant during a match can quickly be forgotten once the final whistle blows.
Pickford’s save was undoubtedly an excellent one and kept England ahead at the time.
But football is ultimately judged by the final result.
Despite England’s strong performance for much of the game, Argentina’s late turnaround means it is Mac Allister and his teammates who continue their World Cup journey.

Rivalries Never Sleep
The Liverpool-Everton rivalry is never far away, even on the international stage.
Whenever players from the two Merseyside clubs face each other, supporters naturally take notice.
Social media was full of Liverpool fans pointing out that while Pickford may have enjoyed his moment after making the save, it was Mac Allister who walked away celebrating at full time.

Eyes on the Final
Mac Allister now turns his attention to the biggest game in international football.
Argentina will meet Spain in the World Cup final, with the Liverpool midfielder hoping to finish another outstanding tournament in style.
For Pickford and England, meanwhile, there will be disappointment after coming so close to reaching their first World Cup final since 1966.
It was another reminder that football can be ruthless.
One moment you’re celebrating a save.
A few minutes later, you’re watching your opponents celebrate a place in the World Cup final.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Alexis Mac Allister played a key role as Argentina produced a remarkable late comeback to defeat England 2–1 and book their place in the FIFA World Cup final.
England were on the verge of making history.
Leading 1–0 against the reigning world champions as the clock inside Atlanta Stadium ticked into the 84th minute, they looked destined to reach their first men’s World Cup final since 1966.
Then everything changed.

England Were Minutes from History
For much of the contest, England defended superbly and deserved their lead.
Argentina struggled to break them down, while England looked increasingly confident as the final whistle approached.
Supporters inside the stadium and watching around the world were beginning to believe the long wait for another World Cup final was finally coming to an end.

Mac Allister Helps Argentina Regain Control
As England tired, Argentina’s midfield began to take control.
Alexis Mac Allister was central to that improvement, helping his side move the ball quicker, maintain possession and increase the pressure on England’s defence.
His composure and intelligence allowed Argentina to build sustained attacks during the closing stages when they needed them most.
It was another example of why the Liverpool midfielder is regarded as one of the finest all-round midfielders in world football.

Argentina Strike Twice
The breakthrough came in the 85th minute, when Enzo Fernández unleashed a powerful strike to bring Argentina level.
The goal completely shifted the momentum.
Then, with extra time looming, Argentina found the decisive moment.
In the 92nd minute, Lautaro Martínez headed home the winner after another brilliant assist from Lionel Messi, completing an astonishing turnaround.

Liverpool Midfielder Delivers Again
Although Messi provided both assists, Mac Allister’s contribution throughout the second half should not be overlooked.
The Liverpool star helped Argentina dictate possession, linked defence and attack superbly and played an important part in wearing England down before the decisive late goals.
Big matches often require calm, experienced performers in midfield, and once again Mac Allister delivered exactly that.

Heartbreak for England
For England, the defeat will be incredibly painful.
To be leading with only minutes remaining before conceding twice is a cruel way to exit a World Cup.
They came within touching distance of reaching their first final since 1966, only to see Argentina snatch victory at the death.

Argentina Face Spain
Argentina now march into Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain, with momentum firmly on their side.
For Liverpool supporters, there is every reason to feel proud watching Alexis Mac Allister continue to perform at the very highest level.
He has already enjoyed another outstanding tournament, and after helping Argentina overcome England in dramatic fashion, he is now just one victory away from becoming a World Cup champion once again.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool’s search for a new defensive midfielder could be gathering pace.
According to SPORT BILD, the Reds are prepared to offer €60 million for Mainz midfielder Kaishu Sano, with the Japan international expected to leave the Bundesliga club this summer.
If the deal goes through, it would represent Mainz’s biggest-ever sale, highlighting just how rapidly Sano’s reputation has grown following his impressive performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

World Cup Performances Have Changed Everything
Sano arrived at the tournament as a highly regarded Bundesliga midfielder.
He leaves it as one of the most talked-about players in European football.
His performances for Japan showcased exactly why Liverpool are believed to be interested.
Throughout the competition he impressed with:
● Outstanding ball-winning ability.
● Tactical discipline.
● High work rate.
● Calmness under pressure.
● Intelligent positioning.
He looked like a midfielder capable of competing at the very highest level.

The No. 6 Liverpool Need?
Liverpool have been linked with several defensive midfielders this summer, but Sano arguably fits the profile better than most.
At his best, he provides the protection that allows more creative players to flourish.
Imagine a midfield featuring:
● Kaishu Sano.
● Alexis Mac Allister.
● Florian Wirtz.
Or Sano sitting behind Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai.
Suddenly Liverpool would have balance, energy and defensive security without sacrificing creativity.

Perfect for Iraola’s Football
Andoni Iraola demands enormous intensity from his midfielders.
His teams press aggressively, recover possession quickly and attack with purpose.
Sano appears ideally suited to that style.
He covers ground relentlessly, reads danger well and rarely wastes possession once he wins it back.
Those qualities would make him a natural fit in Liverpool’s new system.

A Record Sale for Mainz
Mainz are fully aware of Sano’s growing value.
According to SPORT BILD, his World Cup performances have significantly increased interest from across Europe, putting the Bundesliga club in a strong negotiating position.
A €60 million transfer would comfortably surpass their previous record sale and underline how highly they now rate the Japanese international.

Worth the Money?
Some supporters may question the fee.
Sixty million euros is a significant investment.
However, Liverpool would not simply be paying for what Sano is today.
They would also be investing in what he could become over the next five to seven years.
With the transfer market continuing to inflate, securing a proven international entering his prime could eventually prove to be excellent value.

One to Watch
Liverpool have yet to make an official move, but the report suggests they are prepared to act if the opportunity arises.
With Sano expected to leave Mainz and several top clubs monitoring his situation, the race for his signature could develop quickly.
If Liverpool are serious about strengthening the base of their midfield, Kaishu Sano looks like one of the most complete options currently available.
Strong.
Disciplined.
Intelligent.
And fresh from a World Cup that has firmly established him on the European stage.
Source: @SPORTBILD

Jamie (The Kopite View)

There is one phrase Liverpool supporters will love hearing.
According to a Liverpool insider, the players have not experienced training sessions this intense since the Jürgen Klopp era.
The report claims the squad are being pushed to their limits every day, with fitness levels, intensity and work rate all being tested to the maximum.
For many supporters, that is exactly what they wanted to hear after the disappointment of last season.

Back to the High Standards
One of the biggest criticisms of Liverpool over the past campaign was a perceived drop in intensity.
The pressing wasn’t as relentless.
The energy levels weren’t as high.
Too often, Liverpool looked second best physically.
If the latest reports are accurate, Iraola has wasted no time addressing that.
His training sessions are said to be demanding, with players constantly challenged both physically and mentally.

Klopp Comparisons Are Significant
Any comparison with Jürgen Klopp immediately attracts attention.
During Klopp’s most successful years, Liverpool became famous for their incredible fitness levels.
They outran opponents.
Pressed aggressively for 90 minutes.
And often won matches simply because they refused to stop running.
If Iraola is bringing that same mentality back to the AXA Training Centre, supporters have every reason to be optimistic.

Built for Iraola’s Style
It should come as no surprise.
At Bournemouth, Iraola’s teams were known for:
● Aggressive pressing.
● High intensity.
● Relentless work rate.
● Quick transitions.
● Physical commitment.
That style simply cannot function unless every player is in peak condition.
The hard work being done now could pay huge dividends once the Premier League season begins.

Fitness Could Be Liverpool’s Biggest Weapon
Modern football is becoming more demanding every year.
Teams competing across multiple competitions need players capable of maintaining high performance levels over long periods.
If Liverpool can stay fit and maintain the intensity reportedly being demanded by Iraola, they could become one of the most physically impressive teams in the league.
That alone could make a significant difference in tight matches.

Players Already Buying In
Perhaps the most encouraging aspect is the attitude of the squad.
Reports suggest players have embraced the challenge despite the demanding workload.
That is exactly the response Iraola will have wanted.
Managers can design the best training sessions in the world.
Ultimately, success depends on whether the players fully commit to the process.
Early signs suggest Liverpool’s squad are doing exactly that.

The Foundation for a Successful Season
Supporters often judge transfer windows by new signings.
Sometimes the biggest improvement comes from what happens on the training pitch.
Fitness.
Organisation.
Understanding.
Confidence.
Those qualities are built during pre-season.
If Liverpool are genuinely working at Klopp-era intensity again, they may already be laying the foundations for a much stronger campaign.
Of course, hard training alone guarantees nothing.
But it does provide the platform for success.
And if Iraola can combine world-class fitness levels with the quality already in Liverpool’s squad, the Reds could be well placed to enjoy a very successful season.
For supporters desperate to see Liverpool play with energy, aggression and purpose once again, this is perhaps the most encouraging report of the summer so far.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

A new manager always brings fresh opportunities.
For some players, Andoni Iraola’s arrival at Liverpool represents a chance to establish themselves as key figures in a new era.
For others, it may be their final opportunity to prove they belong at Anfield.
Here are five Liverpool players who, in my opinion, simply have to step up this season.

1. Cody Gakpo
   Few players have divided opinion quite like Cody Gakpo.
   At times, he has looked capable of producing moments of genuine quality.
   At others, he has drifted through games without making the impact supporters know he is capable of.
   With Mohamed Salah gone, Liverpool need more goals and more consistency from their attackers.
   If Gakpo can finally deliver that on a regular basis, he could become one of Iraola’s most important players.
   If not, questions about his long-term future are likely to grow.
2. Harvey Elliott
   Harvey Elliott has already impressed Iraola with his attitude after reporting back early for pre-season.
   The talent has never been in doubt.
   Now he needs to turn that promise into consistent performances.
   Competition for places is fierce, but Elliott has the creativity and work ethic to earn an important role if he can maintain his early momentum.
   This feels like a defining season in his Liverpool career.
3. Stefan Bajčetić
   Few Liverpool supporters have forgotten how impressive Bajčetić looked when he first broke into the first team.
   Unfortunately, injuries have repeatedly interrupted his development.
   Now back in training, he has a chance to remind everyone why he was regarded as one of Europe’s brightest young midfielders.
   If he can stay fit, he could feel like an entirely new signing.
   Availability is now just as important as ability.
4. Jeremy Jacquet
   Replacing Ibrahima Konaté was never going to be easy.
   Jeremy Jacquet now arrives with enormous expectations and a significant transfer fee attached to his name.
   Fortunately, he also arrives with the attributes Liverpool need.
   Strong.
   Athletic.
   Comfortable on the ball.
   He won’t be expected to replace Konaté overnight, but Liverpool will need him to settle quickly if they are to challenge for major honours.
5. Rio Ngumoha
   This may surprise some people.
   But I genuinely believe Rio Ngumoha has a huge opportunity.
   Reports suggest Iraola is even considering using him on the right side of Liverpool’s attack.
   If Liverpool do not sign another specialist right winger before the transfer window closes, the pathway becomes even clearer.
   Ngumoha has already shown confidence, pace and fearlessness well beyond his years.
   Now comes the challenge of proving he can do it consistently against senior opposition.

A Huge Season Ahead
Every successful team needs players to improve.
Liverpool already possess plenty of quality.
The difference between competing for trophies and falling short may come down to whether players such as Gakpo, Elliott, Bajčetić, Jacquet and Ngumoha can all reach another level.
Andoni Iraola has built his reputation on developing players and getting more from the squads he inherits.
If he can do that again at Liverpool, supporters may be pleasantly surprised by just how much quality was already waiting inside the dressing room.

Jamie (The Kopite View)