Andoni Iraola still has work to do to transform Liverpool's expectations this summer
KIRKBY, ENGLAND - JULY 13: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Andoni Iraola head coach of Liverpool during a press conference at AXA Training Centre on July 13, 2026 in Kirkby, England. (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Andoni Iraola has admitted what Liverpool need in the transfer market(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
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The clock is ticking for Andoni Iraola to inject new blood into his Liverpool squad this summer. Among the transfer priorities that remain for the Spaniard is to fill the considerable void left by Mohamed Salah.
The Reds boss has improved depth on the left flank with the signing of Victor Munoz last month, but has yet to do the same on the opposite wing with Federico Chiesa and Harvey Elliott the current options in the position.
The lack of additions is not for the want of trying as the Reds have been consistently linked to Paris Saint-Germain star Bradley Barcola and RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande. However, progress on both possible deals has stalled.
The Ivorian's latest stance on his future may lead Iraola to consider other attacking targets. The Spaniard boss could look towards a familiar league to bolster his firepower ahead of his first season at Anfield.
Diomande decision made
Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig in action during the Bundesliga match between RB Leipzig and 1. FC Union Berlin
Yan Diomande is nearing a move to Real Madrid(Image: Getty Images)
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The protracted transfer saga surrounding Yan Diomande has dominated much of the summer and now appears to be edging towards a resolution. Real Madrid have thrown their hat into the ring for the RB Leipzig star and are reportedly confident of securing his signature.
The Spanish heavyweights have seen an offer of £85million knocked back, but encouraging discussions with the 19-year-old's representatives have left Jose Mourinho's side firmly in pole position. Diomande has long been associated with Liverpool, who tabled an identical package to Madrid, only for it to be promptly turned down.
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Liverpool had been locked in a battle with Paris Saint-Germain for Diomande, with the French champions believed to be the Ivorian's preferred destination. The most recent development surrounding his future now points towards a potential move to the Santiago Bernabeu.
£51m alternative
Oskar Pietuszewski of FC Porto celebrates during the title celebration party at Avenida dos Aliados after the Primeira Liga match between FC Porto and CD Santa Clara at Estadio do Dragao
Oskar Pietuszewski is attracting interest across Europe(Image: Diogo Cardoso/Getty Images)
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Liverpool continue to scour the market for a winger and the Reds may cast their eye towards the Portuguese league once more to strengthen their attacking options. According to fussballdaten, Iraola is keeping tabs on Porto wonderkid Oskar Pietuszewski.
The 18-year-old only arrived at the club in January yet has caught the attention of numerous admirers across Europe with his displays, among them Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea.
The Portuguese giants are understood to have inserted a £51.2m release clause into the Polish winger's contract, with Borussia Dortmund reportedly at the front of the queue for his signature.