In truth, it should be fairly obvious to Richard Hughes where he needs to improve Liverpool’s squad this summer.
Arne Slot has done a brilliant job with the Liverpool squad he inherited from Jurgen Klopp, but the campaign has still exposed one or two weaknesses.
Firstly, Liverpool need a new striker — Darwin Nunez isn’t the number nine to lead the club forward, even if he will always be incredibly popular on Merseyside.
Liverpool could move for Victor Osimhen if Alexander Isak isn’t available this summer, but the Newcastle United striker remains their number one target.
And aside from a new forward, Liverpool also need a new left-back to provide competition for Andy Robertson, who has showed signs of decline this season.
Milos Kerkez might be Liverpool’s first choice in that respect, but the club are also exploring one or two alternatives.
Wolves ready to hand Rayan Ait-Nouri new deal
In addition to Antonee Robinson at Fulham, Liverpool are also interested in Rayan Ait-Nouri at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Ait-Nouri was brilliant under Gary O’Neil even when Wolves were struggling and the 23-year-old has continued to flourish during better times under Vitor Pereira.
READ MORE: Liverpool’s transfer plans revealed as ‘huge summer’ on the cards for Arne Slot and Richard Hughes
Liverpool could change their plans to sign Ait-Nouri according to reports, but now The Telegraph are reporting that Wolves are ready to offer the full-back a new contract.
The report acknowledges that Liverpool have been scouting Ait-Nouri ‘frequently’ a player who would cost interested clubs around £50m were they to make a bid.
However, Wolves are keen to hand Ait-Nouri an improved deal as they want him to remain as a key part of their project moving forward.
Manchester United are trying to sign Matheus Cunha and Wolves will be wary of losing more than one of Pereira’s key performers in the same summer.
Milos Kerkez could be more attainable for Richard Huges
Interestingly, Manchester City are also doing checks on Ait-Nouri, a player who is understandably demanding attention across the Premier League.
The Algeria international has thrived as both a left-back and left wing-back in a forward-thinking role.
And it’s clear to see why he could thrive in a team like Liverpool who often dominate the ball in advanced areas.
However, the same can be said of Kerkez at Bournemouth, and perhaps the Hungarian might actually be easier to prise away this summer.
Bournemouth have a similar price tag to Ait-Nouri at Wolves, but the seasiders would seemingly be more willing than their counterparts to accept a bid for Kerkez.
