Liverpool Move for Morgan Rogers as Hughes Shapes Recruitment Strategy

Liverpool’s search for reinforcements has turned increasingly strategic under Richard Hughes according to Anfield Watch, with a clear focus on securing homegrown talent capable of elevating the squad without compromising long-term planning. Morgan Rogers has emerged as a compelling option, his form at Aston Villa placing him firmly on the radar as Liverpool assess future wide options.

Rogers has been one of the quiet revelations of the campaign. After a subdued start to the season, he has accelerated impressively, contributing three goals and five assists across 21 matches. His adaptability, direct running and improved decision-making have made him one of Villa’s most productive outlets in recent months. As Liverpool continue to assess potential successors for Mohamed Salah, Rogers’ profile and trajectory make him an increasingly attractive candidate.

Hughes’ Defensive Priorities

While attention on the forward line is understandable, Hughes’ work behind the scenes suggests that defensive reinforcements remain equally high on the agenda. Ezri Konsa, long admired for his consistency and maturity in Aston Villa’s evolving system, has been evaluated as part of the broader recruitment picture. His experience in European competition and his strong international displays under Thomas Tuchel speak to a player who has grown into a reliable presence at elite level.

Yet the name that continues to dominate internal discussions is Marc Guehi. Liverpool’s interest last summer was well-documented, with a £35 million approach falling short late in the window as Crystal Palace held firm. Guehi’s leadership, composure and physical authority have made him one of the Premier League’s most dependable defenders. His partnership with Konsa for England only underlines his readiness for a step into a high-pressure environment such as Anfield.

With his contract winding down, Liverpool are once again evaluating whether conditions are finally favourable. Last year’s obstacle – Palace lacking a ready-made replacement – may now be shifting.

Palace’s Replacement Work Opens Door

Recent reporting indicates that Palace are actively sourcing cover should Guehi depart, a development that could dramatically reshape the market. West Ham’s Max Kilman is understood to be attracting interest from Selhurst Park, with the centre-back increasingly out of favour under Nuno Espírito Santo despite being contracted until 2031.

Elsewhere, Atalanta defender Odilon Kossounou is being monitored closely. The 24-year-old has impressed in Serie A following his move from Bayer Leverkusen and fits Palace’s blend of athleticism and age-profile recruitment. Additional names, including Ousmane Diomande and Maxime Esteve, are also being assessed, pointing to significant activity behind the scenes as Palace build out a succession plan.

For Liverpool, this shift is crucial. A more open stance from Palace could facilitate a January breakthrough, enabling the Reds to address defensive frailties sooner than expected and end the uncertainty that has surrounded the position since August.

Liverpool’s Wider Recruitment Picture

Hughes’ arrival has signalled a more targeted and data-aligned approach to squad building. With several positions requiring attention over the next two windows, the club’s ability to secure homegrown players such as Morgan Rogers, alongside established defensive leaders like Guehi, may prove decisive in shaping the next phase of Liverpool’s evolution.

The increased clarity around Palace’s recruitment strategy creates an opening Liverpool have previously lacked. Whether the move arrives in January or the summer, Guehi’s profile aligns directly with what the squad has been missing. Combined with the growing momentum around Rogers, it is clear that Liverpool are preparing for a transformative period under the new hierarchy.