Liverpool could target players from recently-relegated Premier League sides West Ham, Wolves and Burnley as Arne Slot looks to boost his squad in the upcoming transfer window
09:58, 26 May 2026Updated 10:02, 26 May 2026
Jarrod Bowen of West Ham United
Jarrod Bowen has been a standout player for West Ham United(Image: Richard Pelham, Getty Images)
Top-flight clubs will be keeping a close eye on the newly-relegated sides as they seek out bargains in this summer's transfer window. West Ham United failed to secure their survival on the final day and will be competing in the Championship next season, alongside Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers. The three clubs will likely look to slash costs as they face up to the grim realities of life outside the Premier League. Cashing in on key players could offer a much-needed financial boost as the relegated sides look to regroup and mount promotion challenges.
At the other end of the scale, the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool may well view the relegated clubs' misfortune as a golden opportunity. As the Champions League sides gear up for another frantic summer, there could be chances to snap up several talented players at knockdown prices following their relegation to the Championship.
Despite their clubs' failure to retain top-flight status, seven potential targets, have demonstrated their quality in the Premier League and would be a valuable addition to any title-challenging squad. Liverpool is expected to dip into the summer transfer market to reinforce Arne Slot's squad for next season. The Reds will need to sign a replacement for Mohamed Salah, who has left the club on a free transfer.
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Jarrod Bowen
The West Ham United skipper stands out as the most obvious name on this list. Bowen has already been the subject of speculation linking him with United and Liverpool as he weighs up his options. The 29 year old netted nine goals and registered 11 assists in the Premier League but was unable to prevent the Hammers from slipping into the relegation zone.
His deal extends through to 2030 and securing his services would likely demand a considerable transfer fee. However, the Guardian has reported that the Hammers need to raise more than £100million this summer, with Bowen amongst those attracting interest.
Following West Ham's relegation, Bowen issued a resolute statement when speaking to Sky Sports: "There's going to be rumours, there's going to be talk. Ultimately, what I see is getting this club back in the Premier League because that is where it deserves to be."
Mateus Fernandes
Mateus Fernandes is another West Ham player who has been linked with a prominent move. Arsenal and United are reportedly keeping tabs on the 21 year old midfielder, who joined the Hammers for £38m from Southampton last summer.
Mateus Fernandes of West Ham United
Mateus Fernandes has been linked with Manchester United(Image: Kevin Hodgson/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Crysencio Summerville
The Dutch winger rounds off the West Ham trio who could help the club generate more than £100m through player sales. Crysencio Summerville found the back of the net regularly at the start of the year and finished the campaign with nine goal contributions. The 24 year old could become a fallback option for Liverpool or United should they look for left wingers this summer.
Joao Gomes
Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes is among a number of Premier League players firmly on Manchester United's radar. Michael Carrick's side are searching for a replacement for Casemiro and are eager to bring in at least two midfielders during the upcoming transfer window.
It was previously reported that Wolves had set a £43m valuation on the 25 year old Brazilian international, though relegation could well influence that asking price. However, any clubs interested in Gomes may need to move quickly, following reports that a transfer to Atletico Madrid is drawing closer.
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Mateus Mane
Mateus Mane stood out as one of the few bright spots during an otherwise disappointing season for Wolves. The 18 year old midfielder impressed across his 27 league appearances, scoring three times and providing two assists. A provisional £50m price tag has previously been suggested amid speculation over his future at Molineux.
Andre Andre was previously on Liverpool's radar and has since been linked as a potential replacement for Casemiro at United. The 24 year old was valued at £35m but has effectively ended transfer talk by signing a new four-year deal with Wolves.
Zian Flemming
A somewhat more unconventional choice. The 27 year old Dutch forward, currently valued at approximately £10m by Transfermarkt, scored 11 goals for Burnley during his maiden Premier League season and could prove a worthwhile option as backup striker.