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The Summer International Tournaments will only Delay Liverpool Signings

On any given day and predominantly when in relation to Liverpool-related posts or articles on varying platforms, I may be asked my opinion on the Reds, especially relating to this summer transfer window. What I have learnt as of late is to limit my responses to those I am not familiar with so that I do not unwittingly antagonize a supporter in desperate need of assurance. Regarding the next two months and the recruitment plan that would have been laid out by the new Liverpool CEO, Michael Edwards, as well his newly appointed Sporting Director, Richard Hughes, sadly a large degree of patience is still required until new purchases come to the fore. The circumstances dictate what is possible, whether that aligns with the wants of the many.

When Are the Reds Likely to Make Signings…?

When sports writers are looking for content and ways to supplement an eager fanbase with articles to read or perhaps podcasts to listen to, widespread topics will be written about or discussed to quench the thirst of the masses. The unending links to prospective players will always require a filter, as though some will hold weight, most players of interest will be based upon tepid speculation and regurgitated reporting. I have little doubt that since the departure of the illustrious former Anfield boss, Jürgen Klopp, a specific game plan was carefully coordinated to identify his replacement head coach, Arnie Slot, as well as build the coaching staff and the squad that could best serve a transition away from one of Merseyside‘s greatest ever servants. The fact that the European Championships and the Copa America tournaments will cover much of the postseason break negates any real fluidity in the transfer market, with so many assets away with their respective national squads. For the Anfield club themselves, it is thus an impossibility to follow through on certain targets that are participating in either competition.

Despite being able to secure the services of a top-class international player now, there is a real possibility that that player could succumb to an injury within an energy-sapping end-of-season tournament. As much as the minority want to dismiss the value of key executives and necessary tiers within the Liverpool hierarchy, these are top-class components that can make the best decisions to serve the short and long-term needs of v2.0. We must look back upon the strategic groundwork that enabled the Premier and Champions League to be won recently, which was overseen away from the training ground by the former Sporting Director, Michael Edwards. I would love to see news that a ferocious defensive midfielder or brilliant young defensive piece had been signed. Luckily, I am patient and accept the nuances and choices that will be considered before and during preseason. These realities mean that deals will be completed only when it is feasible.

What is the Best Course of Action…?

I wrote an article recently stating that no player would be sold or signed before the unveiling of the new head coach, Arne Slot. His first press conference will not be far away now, allowing final decisions to be set in place to ensure the AXA Training Centre is fully stocked with whatever is needed before the 45-year-old embarks on the 2024/25 season. I expect big things and am very confident of a successful season ahead; however, rushing to get where we want to be will only aid our competitors. Anyone keen to see short-term gains need only look upon fallen giants Manchester United, who are the prototype of how to get things wrong by being reactive and ignorant of the bigger picture.

Liverpool will make the required signings to supplement this exciting squad. Though it may not be tomorrow or even the day after that, the reality is that safe hands are where the club is currently placed, and the fan base should remain excited rather than annoyed.

Steven Smith

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