Andoni Iraola manager of Bournemouth inspects the pitch prior to kick off during the Premier League match Nottingham Forest vs Bournemouth at City Ground, Nottingham, United Kingdom on 24 May 2026
Credit Image: © News Images / SmartFrame
Liverpool are preparing for another transfer battle as Andoni Iraola looks to strengthen his squad.
The Reds have endured an inconsistent start to the 2026–27 campaign despite significant summer investment.
However, their attacking improvements have been accompanied by defensive problems under Iraola’s aggressive tactical system.
Liverpool currently sit fifth in the Premier League with 15 points from their opening nine matches. Their latest setback came against Arsenal, who secured a 1-0 victory at Anfield.
The defeat followed another disappointing home result against Manchester City, who beat Liverpool 3-0 in October.
Despite their domestic struggles, Liverpool have enjoyed greater success in European and domestic cup competitions.
Nevertheless, Iraola appears interested in further reinforcements as the January transfer window approaches.
The Merseyside club are monitoring a Barcelona defender who could become available this winter.
However, they face competition from several European clubs interested in securing the player’s signature.
According to journalist Juan Jesus, Liverpool and AC Milan are pursuing Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde. Manchester United are also involved in the race for the Spanish defender.
Iraola is understood to admire Balde and believes his qualities would suit Liverpool’s tactical approach.
The 23-year-old has attracted attention from multiple clubs amid uncertainty surrounding his future at Barcelona.
The report suggests Balde is already open to leaving the Catalan club during the January transfer window. Barcelona have established a minimum asking price of €45 million for his departure.
Meanwhile, AC Milan’s involvement could complicate Liverpool’s pursuit of the defender.
Manchester United represent another potential obstacle, with the Premier League rivals also monitoring his situation.
However, the report does not indicate that any interested club has submitted a formal offer.
Liverpool must therefore decide whether to pursue Balde as they assess their defensive options.
☎️🚨El Liverpool y el AC Milan van con todo a por Alejandro Balde. Se unen al Manchester United en la puja.
➡️ Tanto Andoni Iraola como Rúben Amorim son fans del jugador y consideran que encajaría a la perfección en sus respectivos esquemas.
➡️ Abierto ya a salir este invierno, el Barça ya ha tasado su salida: la entidad culé pide un mínimo de 45 millones de euros para dejarle marchar. 🔵🔴
— Juan jesus (@Juanjesuscsap) November 2, 2026
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Hansi Flick, head coach of FC Barcelona, looks on during the Spanish league, LaLiga EA Sports, football match played between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan stadium on September 19, 2026, in Sevilla, Spain.
Hansi Flick, head coach of FC Barcelona, looks on during the Spanish league, LaLiga EA Sports, football match played between Sevilla FC and FC Barcelona at Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan stadium on September 19, 2026, in Sevilla, Spain.