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Andoni Iraola was appointed as Liverpool head coach earlier this month, replacing Arne Slot, and his task is to reshape the squad and implement a system that reflects his own identity while maximising the current group.
Last season saw midfielders deployed at full-back, full-backs used as wingers, and wingers filling in as strikers, ending the campaign without silverware. Despite scraping Champions League qualification, it ultimately cost Arne Slot his job.
High-profile departures such as Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson mark the end of an era, with Liverpool expected to target at least one winger and a left-back this summer.
Liverpool are reportedly in talks with Manchester City academy midfielder Xavier Parker’s representatives over a potential move.
According to Liverpool academy expert Lewis Bower, City are fighting to keep the youngster, but at this point, the player is still expected to join Liverpool.
Parker racked up 21 appearances for Manchester City’s Under-18 side, scored six goals, and provided seven assists in all competitions last term. He also became the second-youngest player to feature for them in the UEFA Youth League.
Xavier Parker has been on Liverpool’s radar for some time, and the Reds are now close to securing his signature. He is also being tipped by some to follow a similar development path to Rio Ngumoha, who has already broken into Liverpool’s senior set-up after joining from Chelsea as a 16-year-old in 2024.
Parker joined Manchester City in 2024 after a strong spell at West Ham’s academy. A creative midfielder, he stepped up to the Under-18s for the 2025/26 season and is expected to add goals and creativity from midfield as he continues his development.
Andoni Iraola is expected to focus on strengthening his squad in the coming weeks, while also keeping a close eye on Liverpool’s academy for emerging talent with high potential.
Xavier Parker will be eager to make the step up quickly if his move to Liverpool is completed, with ambitions of pushing into the first-team picture sooner rather than later.