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For years on end, Liverpool supporters were always super critical about the lack of investment from the hierarchy, which often saw them miss out on key transfer targets.
However, such a statement can no longer be considered given the sheer amount of spending the board have conducted over the last couple of seasons.
The Reds have invested over £600m into the senior squad over the last two years alone, which has handed various managers the chance to win silverware at Anfield.
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Andoni Iraola is the latest beneficiary of the board’s ambitious recruitment drive, and he’s already starting to work wonders with one of the additions made prior to his arrival.
Why Wirtz is becoming Iraola’s most influential player
After ending last season on just eight combined goals and assists in the Premier League, many pundits and analysts were questioning whether Florian Wirtz was up to scratch after his £116m move.
Even at the start of the ongoing campaign, the German attacker drew criticism from Jamie Carragher after his performance against Manchester City.
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Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduff
However, since such an outing, the 23-year-old has taken the disrespect personally and started to look like a player capable of starring within Iraola’s system.
He’s featured four times since and registered a goal contribution in three of the aforementioned outings, and thought he netted against Brighton until his effort went down as a Pascal Gross own goal.
Wirtz’s showing against Brentford was arguably his best since arriving on Merseyside, as he produced a superb assist for Victor Munoz - who levelled the scoreline before the Reds secured victory.
The German managed to create nine chances during the meeting with the Bees, with such a tally the highest in a single game since his big-money move last summer.
He also made 26 line-breaking passes during the triumph, with the attacking midfielder now a crucial cog within the club’s efforts within the final third of the pitch.
Why Liverpool's £100m target is perfect for Wirtz
Wirtz’s turnaround in form is a welcome sight for the Liverpool faithful who have constantly been demanding more from the big-money man since his arrival.
However, they will also be hoping that he can sustain such form in the months ahead to bolster the Reds’ chances of a successful season under Iraola.
Liverpool manager Androni Iraola poses for a photograph before the press conference
Liverpool manager Androni Iraola poses for a photograph before the press conference
He will need added support if he is to continue to be one of the club’s most influential talents, and it’s safe to say he could get just that during the January window.
Despite the market not opening for another two months, the Reds have started draw up a list of possible targets - which includes Bournemouth midfielder, Alex Scott.
It’s been reported by TEAMtalk that Iraola personally wants the hierarchy to try and complete a deal to be reunited with the Englishman after their time together at the Vitality.
Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott
Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott
However, competition for his signature may be tough, as Chelsea are another side who are said to be closely monitoring the 23-year-old’s progress ahead of the winter.
Any deal would likely cost a pretty penny though, as the Cherries are still in contract talks with the youngster and would demand at least £100m to sanction a sale.
Whilst such a figure seems hugely expensive, it could well prove to be a phenomenal piece of business if Scott can aid Wirtz in his quest for success at Anfield.
His stats from the current campaign showcase his quality at the heart of the side and demonstrate why he could well be the player to unlock the German’s full potential.
The Englishman has managed to average a staggering 9.7 line-breaking passes and 2.2 chances created per 90 in the Premier League so far this season.
Appearances 5
Starts 5
Minutes played 446
Goals 1
Assists 0
Touches 353
Touches in opposition box 15
Passes completed 250 (82%)
Key passes 11
Dribbles completed 4 (67%)
Duels won 33
Tackles 9
Interceptions 8
Both of the figures showcase his tremendous composure with the ball at his feet, which could see him pick out Wirtz and allow the German to cause carnage within forward areas.
Scott’s talent in possession is further reflected in his 67% dribble success rate, which could also see his marauding runs play into the hands of the attacking midfielder when picking out a teammate.
Even without the ball, the youngster has managed to impress, subsequently making 12.1 defensive contributions per 90 - which places him in the top 15% of all midfielders in the division.
Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott
Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott
Such a figure would take some of the defensive responsibility off the shoulders of Wirtz, who could therefore have more freedom to create the goods in possession.
£100m may appear to be a huge figure for Liverpool, but it’s one that could solve a huge issue within the senior ranks for the immediate and long-term future.
Iraola clearly wants to work with the talented youngster once again, and the board should fulfil his desire with a move for his signature during the winter window.
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