Liverpool are expected to be active in the transfer market this summer, with Dean Huijsen emerging as a key target for sporting director Richard Hughes.
However, any potential move for the young defender could depend on player sales at Anfield. At first glance, this situation may raise some concerns.
Liverpool’s return to the Champions League and the boost in revenue from a full season of gate receipts at their expanded Anfield should put the club in a strong financial position.
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Moreover, it was a relatively quiet summer last time with Federico Chiesa being the only major signing. Although a deal for Giogi Mamardashvili was agreed upon, the deal fell through.
Liverpool fans are now hoping for a more significant business in the upcoming transfer window. It’s expected to be a pivotal time for Hughes as he starts to shape the squad to fit Arne Slot’s vision for the future.
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Liverpool’s Huijsen move hits roadblock
However, as reported by David Ornstein of The Athletic, any move for Huijsen Liverpool might be tied to player sales. The reason isn’t purely financial.
Ornstein points out that Liverpool may not prioritize adding to this position unless another central defender leaves. Huijsen, highly sought after by top clubs including Chelsea, Real Madrid, Newcastle, and Bayern Munich, will likely expect to play a starring role wherever he goes.
This raises the question of whether he would want to come to Liverpool as a backup to Virgil van Dijk or Ibrahima Konaté, and whether that would be a suitable step in his career.
Given that both Van Dijk and Konaté have cemented their spots as key players, Huijsen might prefer a move where he is guaranteed regular first-team football.
Liverpool’s center-back situation could change soon, especially as Van Dijk’s contract expires in the summer. If the club shows interest in Huijsen, Hughes could pitch the young defender as the natural successor to the captain.
Liverpool’s Huijsen deal hinges on Hughes
Should the move happen, Hughes will be in a strong position. He joined Liverpool from Bournemouth last summer and has established strong ties with key recruitment staff. He’s also likely familiar with Huijsen’s qualities, having played a role in bringing him to Bournemouth.
Hughes’ knowledge of the player and his fit at Liverpool will be crucial. It’s unclear how involved Hughes was in Huijsen’s initial move to Bournemouth, but it’s clear he’s well-placed to broker a deal. His connections to the club could help in making this transfer happen.
Liverpool have used release clauses well in recent windows, such as with Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai. It’s still unclear how Hughes will approach this summer’s business.
If the club pursues a center-back, Huijsen could be a good opportunity at a reasonable price. However, any investment must improve the team immediately, not just provide depth. If Liverpool acts, Hughes’ insider knowledge will be vital in securing the deal.
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Sai Akshay
I'm a football enthusiast and an avid writer and someone who lives by the Bill Shankly quote, on a day to day basis.