Tag: FSG

Keith Wyness responds to shocking Liverpool news – ‘big loss’

Keith Wyness, former chief of Everton, has stated that Liverpool is poised to announce a “big loss” financially, but they are expected to recover quickly this season.

In a recent appearance on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness, who was the CEO at Goodison Park from 2004 to 2009 and now runs a consultancy for elite football clubs, suggested that this financial setback could explain Liverpool’s lack of transfer activity.

As reported by the Liverpool Echo on January 7, the Reds are expected to reveal a “heavy loss” when they release their financial report for the 2023-24 season at the end of February. However, it is anticipated that the loss will be “tens of millions” lower than the £100 million figure that has been mentioned in other reports.

Liverpool had to contend without Champions League football last season, and this has had a financial impact despite their success in winning the League Cup. Under Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), clubs can only lose £105 million over a three-season period.

Wyness shared his insights on the podcast: “I’ve seen the numbers reported, and it will be a big loss. It does explain, to a degree, why they’ve been so patient with the three players out of contract. If any one of those three players left, it would be a big expense to find a replacement. It may well be that they’ve been holding on and trying to get those contracts resolved.”

He added, “These losses are also the reason they haven’t had any bumper spending on transfers in recent years. It does look like they will have a bumper year in 24/25. There’s the Champions League, FA Cup, Premier League – it could be a bumper season. That sort of loss could be erased this season. It will be a big loss, but the squad is performing. What more can you ask?”

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Omar Marmoush comments released as ‘Liverpool target confirms transfer agreement’

In a live update on the potential transfer saga of Omar Marmoush, it appears that the Egyptian forward could be heading to Manchester City this month, although Eintracht Frankfurt has yet to receive an official offer for the player, who is having a stellar season.

Speaking to the press, Frankfurt’s sporting director Markus Krosche confirmed, “There is still no inquiry, no email, no offer. Our intention is to keep the squad together.” This comes amid growing speculation linking Marmoush to top Premier League clubs, with reports from Sky Sports suggesting the 25-year-old has agreed a deal in principle to join Manchester City.

Marmoush has been in sensational form this season, with 18 goals and 12 assists in 24 appearances across all competitions for Frankfurt, making him one of Europe’s standout performers. Only Mohamed Salah has more goal contributions than Marmoush in the top five leagues. The forward, who plays alongside Salah for the Egypt national team, looks more likely to move to Manchester City than Liverpool at this stage.

Negotiations between City and Frankfurt are reportedly set to begin soon, as Marmoush has reportedly agreed to be part of Pep Guardiola’s squad. Frankfurt is believed to value the player at around $82 million, but Manchester City is expected to push for a deal closer to $52 million to $62 million. Frankfurt is likely to reject any offers significantly below their asking price.

City, who are currently without a recognized backup for Erling Haaland after selling Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid last summer, are looking to bolster their attacking options. While Haaland has scored 21 goals in 27 appearances this season, Phil Foden is the next highest scorer for City with just five goals, two of which have come in the Premier League. The addition of Marmoush could provide a valuable alternative, offering more versatility, agility, and a different playing style compared to Haaland—similar to the profile of Alvarez.

January 20, 2025
FSG delivered nine-word message to Mohamed Salah as Liverpool prioritizes contract talks

Liverpool fans are hoping Mohamed Salah secures a new contract at Anfield as his current deal nears its end, but it may not be that straightforward, according to Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.

Hasselbaink suggests that Fenway Sports Group could decide against offering Salah a new deal due to his age. The Egyptian international’s contract expires in June, by which time he will be 33 years old. Despite Salah’s impressive performance this season, with 18 goals and 13 assists, the former Chelsea forward believes Salah could leave the club.

In an appearance on The LineUp, in partnership with BetMGM and talkSPORT, Hasselbaink commented: “Mohamed Salah is doing the business week in, week out at the top, top level. There are not a lot of players like Salah who will be playing as well as he is in the last year of their contract.”

“He can obviously put all of the distractions to the side and perform like he has been – I think it really shows how mentally strong he is. If I’m the manager of Liverpool, I obviously want to keep all three of Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold.” However, Hasselbaink acknowledged that the club’s owners might view the situation differently, adding, “I would let Salah go because of his age.”

He further explained: “You would have to pay him mega money and I just don’t think you can give a player of his age a three-year contract. Business-wise, it’s not sustainable and the best business for Liverpool is to see him go.”

Salah isn’t the only key player with a contract expiring this summer. Both club captain Virgil van Dijk and England’s Trent Alexander-Arnold have not yet agreed to new terms. Like Salah, Van Dijk, 33, is nearing the end of his career, but he has been vocal about his desire to extend his stay at Anfield. Meanwhile, 26-year-old Alexander-Arnold has been linked with a potential move to Real Madrid, and losing him on a free transfer would leave a significant gap in Liverpool’s lineup.

Hasselbaink shared his thoughts on these players, stating: “I think Van Dijk will stay as you can still get three good years out of him playing as a centre-back. As for Trent, it all depends on what he really wants and where he sees his career going. Do you only dream of being a Liverpool player or do you want to see how good you can be in a different country and culture?”

January 10, 2025

FSG’s Potential 2025 Pre-Season Destination for Liverpool Indicates £90m Deal Nearing Completion, with Mohamed Salah’s Role Crucial

When Mohamed Salah reports for pre-season ahead of the 2025-26 season, fans are hoping it will be as a Liverpool player, rather than having just transferred on a free to a new club.

The Egyptian King is currently in the form of his life at Anfield – a remarkable feat for a forward who has already accumulated 328 goal involvements in Liverpool colours.

Salah has scored or assisted 29 times in 23 appearances across all competitions, a tally that surpasses any other player in Europe’s Big Five leagues.

Europe’s Top Five Leagues: Most Goal Involvements

Rank	Player	Position	Age	Nationality	Club / League	Matches	Goals	Assists

1	Mohamed Salah	Right Winger	32	Egypt	Liverpool (Premier League)	15	13	9
2	Harry Kane	Centre-Forward	31	England	Bayern Munich (Bundesliga)	12	14	7
3	Omar Marmoush	Centre-Forward	25	Egypt	Eintracht Frankfurt (Bundesliga)	14	13	8
4	Raphinha	Left Winger	28	Brazil	FC Barcelona (La Liga)	18	11	8
5	Robert Lewandowski	Centre-Forward	36	Poland	FC Barcelona (La Liga)	17	16	2
6	Cole Palmer	Attacking Midfield	22	England	Chelsea (Premier League)	16	11	6
7	Marcus Thuram	Centre-Forward	27	France	Inter Milan (Serie A)	14	10	6
8	Mateo Retegui	Centre-Forward	25	Italy	Atalanta BC (Serie A)	16	12	3
9	Vinicius Junior	Left Winger	24	Brazil	Real Madrid (La Liga)	14	8	7
10	Lamine Yamal	Right Winger	17	Spain	FC Barcelona (La Liga)	16	5	10

Yet, Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), could soon see Salah sign a pre-contract with an overseas club, with just over two weeks remaining before the January transfer window opens.

As the 32-year-old nears the final six months of his contract, he has made it clear that FSG’s contract offer has not met his expectations.

Reports from last week hinted that there had been some movement in the deadlock between the two sides, and notably with Salah’s representative, Ramy Abbass.

In an unusual move for a player of Salah’s caliber, Abbass represents only him, bucking the common trend where most Liverpool players are represented by large agencies.

Salah isn’t the only player facing a contract standoff with FSG. The futures of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk are also uncertain.

While Van Dijk has kept his frustrations private, the situation isn’t ideal for Arne Slot as he aims to lead Liverpool to a Premier League title. Nevertheless, the manager has handled the pressure well, and the performances of the three out-of-contract players have remained unaffected — in fact, they have excelled.

As the team heads on their annual overseas pre-season tour next summer, they will hope to prepare for just their second-ever Premier League title defence.

Recently, a potential new destination has been suggested for Liverpool’s tour, possibly signaling positive movement in Salah’s contract talks, alongside a potential lucrative commercial deal.

Liverpool Set for New Kit Deal and Japan Tour in the works

In previous years, Liverpool’s pre-season tours have been more subdued compared to other top clubs. Jurgen Klopp, known for his meticulous pre-season planning, preferred less time in markets like the United States or Asia-Pacific, focusing more on familiar environments for his squad.

While Liverpool still participated in commercial tours, they were not as extensive as FSG would have liked.

However, with Arne Slot now in charge, and while he doesn’t yet hold the same influence as Klopp, FSG has greater freedom to plan these trips. Reports from late last week indicate that FSG is considering a pre-season tour to Japan and Hong Kong next summer.

Why Japan? It is a crucial market for Adidas, the German sportswear giant, which has a history of encouraging clubs to launch new kits there.

This mirrors the situation when Newcastle United partnered with Adidas ahead of this season, creating a large marketing campaign in Japan for their third kit.

🚨 #NUFC third kit teaser from Japan….

👀 ⚪🟢 🔜 @adidas
pic.twitter.com/eqLtuM7OSc

— 𝗠𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝘆𝗻𝗲 #NUFC (@ToonMouthTyne) July 29, 2024

Liverpool is believed to have signed a new deal with Adidas, although it won’t be confirmed for several months to honor their existing contract with Nike.

The new kit partnership is expected to represent a significant financial boost, with estimates suggesting it could be worth up to £90 million per season.

Mohamed Salah’s Role in FSG’s Adidas Deal

Liverpool’s commercial power is tightly linked with Salah’s influence. The forward is thought to earn around £1 million per week, with the majority of that coming from image rights and his personal brand endorsements.

Crucially, Salah is an Adidas athlete.

This connection would have played a pivotal role in FSG’s negotiations with Adidas. Salah has his own signature boots with the brand, and last year he was featured as one of the faces in their collaboration with luxury brand Gucci.

December 17, 2024

Liverpool owner John Henry ‘in discussions’ about potential $1 billion deal with Saudi Arabia PIF

Liverpool and FSG chief John Henry has discussed a potential $1 billion investment from the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF) for one of his other projects.

FSG, Liverpool’s ownership group, is part of a consortium that has invested in the PGA Tour following the opportunity created by the LIV Golf, which is backed by the Saudi Arabian PIF.

There have been talks of a merger between the PGA, DP World Tour, and LIV Golf, though no agreement has been finalized yet. According to ESPN, John W Henry, principal owner of Liverpool FC, has been engaged in discussions this week regarding this deal.

Recent meetings in New York reportedly involved legendary golfer Tiger Woods and former Masters champion Adam Scott. The discussions, which were “scheduled to last multiple days,” could see the Saudi PIF investing approximately $1 billion.

However, these meetings have faced criticism from the 9/11 Justice group, which includes survivors, first responders, and family members of those killed in the 2001 attacks. The group has accused the Saudi Arabian government of supporting the terrorists behind the attacks.

“Tomorrow, we commemorate the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy, yet here we are today, in New York City, down the street from Ground Zero, and the PGA Tour and Tiger Woods are negotiating with them,” 9/11 Justice president Brett Eagleson said in a statement.

“As confirmed by recent CBS reports, the Saudi Arabian government had a role in the 9/11 attacks. It is disgusting, unacceptable, and incredibly painful that the Tour and Woods would engage with them — especially now.”

Since 2010, FSG has owned Liverpool, and Henry also owns the Boston Red Sox and the Pittsburgh Penguins. The group holds a 50 percent stake in NASCAR’s RFK Racing. The golf project, which also involves Rory McIlroy, is another part of an expanding portfolio across various sports.

Liverpool.com notes: While this deal won’t directly impact Liverpool FC, every FSG move is worth monitoring. The golf merger has been progressing quietly, and it appears a deal may be approaching.

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Liverpool’s interest grows in star player with €180m asking price

Liverpool are increasingly interested in the possible acquisition of Bayern Munich attacking midfielder Jamal Musiala, who is also being tracked by Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain.

Bayern have publicly expressed their intention to secure Musiala with a new contract, but CaughtOffside reports that Liverpool have been alerted as the Germany international approaches the final year of his current deal at the Allianz Arena.

Fabrizio Romano told CaughtOffside yesterday that Bayern are optimistic about retaining Musiala, though no agreement has been reached yet, and the process might take some time. Therefore, it is not surprising to see other clubs becoming involved.

The promising 21-year-old could potentially achieve legendary status at Bayern if he decides to remain with the club and become a central figure for both Bayern and German football.

Musiala transfer: Is Liverpool able to attract Bayern’s star to Anfield?

Musiala also has ties to English football, having been part of Chelsea’s academy and representing both England and Germany at youth levels before choosing the latter for his senior international career.

As a result, Premier League clubs might have some hope of attracting Musiala if he continues to delay signing a new deal at Bayern.

Some sources have indicated to CaughtOffside that Musiala’s priority might be to stay at Bayern, though he appears to keep his options open, as he also has aspirations to play in the Premier League.

Whether Liverpool or Manchester City can convince Musiala to join remains uncertain, especially since CaughtOffside notes that his asking price could be as high as €180m, presenting a significant hurdle for negotiations with Bayern before even considering Musiala’s interest in a potential move.

September 15, 2024
FSG may disregard Liverpool policies for Mohamed Salah as final farewell in question

After reaching the last 12 months of his current contract, Mohamed Salah, a forward for Liverpool, has been questioned about his future at Anfield.

This season, Mohamed Salah’s most recent goal celebration has now been seen twice. In both instances, the striker is seen reaching behind his back to grab an imaginary arrow before firing it towards the Liverpool fans. But this week, the Egyptian purposefully missed the mark when it came to dispelling rumours about his long-term future with the team.

“I don’t want to think about next year, I don’t want to think about the future,” Salah replied. “Well, I have one year left, so let’s just enjoy. I simply came for a season. Simply enjoy it and don’t worry about anything, including the contract.”

Depending on how you see things, those remarks may make you feel like your glass is half full or half empty.

More optimistic supporters will point out that Salah is, and has demonstrated thus far this season, totally dedicated to the Liverpool cause, regardless of the status of his contract. He won’t be sidetracked, obviously.

More pessimistic observers, however, will interpret his evasive response as the first indication that the Egyptian is preparing Reds supporters for the final farewell before his current contract expires at the end of the season.

In this case, both camps could be right. Salah has never once let rumours of interest in moving elsewhere affect his performances, whether it was to Real Madrid during his Liverpool career or Saudi Arabia more recently.

However, it is impossible to ignore the fact that, if we take Salah’s statements at face value, not much seems to be moving in the direction of a new contract at Anfield.

Similar questions were posed to Virgil van Dijk following Sunday’s victory over Brentford regarding his own contract status, which, like Salah, currently allows him to speak with foreign teams starting in January and to walk away free the following summer.

Van Dijk declared, “I want to play the best season I can again.” “This year, I want to be significant and remain significant to the team. We’ll see what occurs in a year or two. I believe that everything happens for a reason. For present, there has been no change in my circumstances.”

Add Trent in there During the last quarter of the match against Brentford, Alexander-Arnold became quite upset over being replaced. Meanwhile, the three Liverpool players who have one year left on their contracts have all been major news this week.

The day after it became known to the public that Liverpool was interested in signing Juventus and Italy forward Federico Chiesa, Salah’s interview with Sky Sports was taped. Playing mostly on the right, Chiesa would provide the Egyptian with senior backup this season, something the Reds haven’t really had in previous years. In Salah’s absence, the team would have to mix and match by deploying players out of position.

Again, it depends on your point of view whether that is more about preparing for Salah’s absence in the future or relieving the player of some of the strain right now.

The approach for Chiesa highlights how Liverpool’s recruitment team, under the direction of new sporting director Richard Hughes, has prioritised moving players in and out of Arne Slot’s squad during the transfer window ahead of negotiating new deals. This was done shortly after a deal was reached for Valencia custodian Giorgi Mamardashvili.

That makes sense once more. And Hughes has certainly inherited something of a hospital pass considering that Liverpool’s captain, vice-captain, and top scorer are all set to reach their contract’s final year. But after the transfer deadline, getting to an agreement with the three people must be the only priority.

Salah would receive a boisterous farewell if he has already determined that this is his final season. After all, the Egyptian has dedicated his finest years to Liverpool. He is among the best football players to have ever worn a Liverpool shirt.

However, if Salah has the potential to play much longer—the Reds head coach Slot believes the 32-year-old still has years left in him at the highest level—it would be foolish to rule out any possibility of extending Salah’s tenure.

Salah is deserving of a little rule-bending because Michael Edwards, the chief executive of football at Fenway Sports Group, has a reputation for producing imaginative work within constraints.

A rolling, incentive-based 12-month contract with a February 1 deadline for the player and club to agree on an extension is one proposal. There would be a certain amount of mobility for all parties, and everyone would know their position well in advance of the summer window.

Similar to Van Dijk and Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool would be careful to avoid letting the matter go on too long. Regardless of the result, everyone will gain from clarity, including the players themselves, Slot, and the rest of the team.

Meanwhile, Salah will continue to do what comes naturally to him. Next up for him is a trip to Manchester United, his beloved team, where he made history last season as the first visiting player to score in four straight away league games.

But Reds supporters will be hoping that the Egyptian King’s reign at Old Trafford as a Liverpool player isn’t over.

August 30, 2024
FSG withdraws from Bordeaux deal; statement made; Liverpool owners explain choice.

Liverpool’s owner, FSG, has pulled away from an agreement to buy French club Bordeaux. The reasoning behind the decision has been explained.

Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the owner of Liverpool, has withdrawn from a proposed takeover bid for French club Bordeaux. Looking to transition to a multi-club model, the American group had been in talks with the Ligue 2 side.

However, a press release from Bordeaux has stated that exploratory conversations between FSG and the six-time French champion have concluded. Liverpool’s ownership group will instead look elsewhere to grow its portfolio.

“FC Girondins de Bordeaux and its shareholder have been informed by Fenway Sports Group of its desire not to pursue discussions initiated in recent weeks with a view to purchasing the club,” according to a statement. “This decision is explained in particular by the stadium’s substantial expense in the coming years, as well as the overall economic environment of French football.

“FC Girondins de Bordeaux and Gérard Lopez would like to thank Fenway Sports Group for their interest in the club and its teams, as well as for travelling to meet with its stakeholders. The Club and its shareholders are currently focusing all of their efforts on finalising a funding plan for the 2024/2025 season in preparation for the appeal hearing.”

According to Liverpool.com, while a move to acquire Bordeaux appeared to make sense, the reasons for pulling out of a potential agreement mount up. It will be intriguing to watch where FSG goes next as it seeks to acquire another football team.

The benefits of doing so are obvious, but it must be the proper move to be effective. Michael Edwards and Julian Ward will both be involved once a new team has been formed, with the latter having been part of the discussions in this case.

More news…….

Manager of Uruguay Shares Important Defensive Plan Against Liverpool Star

During this Copa America 2024, Uruguay and Colombia placed first in their respective groups. Although Luis Diaz of Liverpool is a star player, La Celeste manager Marcelo Bielsa is more interested in his teammate James Rodríguez.

After four games, Rodríguez has one goal and five assists, making headlines. But Uruguay’s defensive strategy centres on Diaz, and in a Tuesday media statement, Bielsa said his team cannot afford to allow Diaz room.

Diaz scored a heads-up goal in the 5-0 victory over Panama, and it appears the former Leeds United manager wants his players to stay away from the same mistakes the Central American club made.

“Díaz is going to thrive if we defend with 40 metres behind us,” Bielsa said to the press (via Diario AS). “He enjoys having room behind him, and he will still find ways to score even if we defend directly in front of the goal. In games, you want to create opportunities for yourself while trying to prevent the opposition from attacking. People will always inquire about a backup plan, though, if you are unable to dominate in the opponent’s half.

There isn’t one; all you need to do is carry out plan A to the best of your ability. A compact squad wants to gain control by attacking, but they also need to know how to defend in case they are unable to. Similar to how we attack, Colombia does the same.

When necessary, we defend; after that, we just have to wait and see. Under manager Nestor Lorenzo, Colombia will want to build on their outstanding performance. They have won 27 straight games, and they may either extend this winning streak against Uruguay or end in defeat and miss out on the Copa America final.

July 16, 2024
FSG, the owners of Liverpool, comments on more Anfield development

Durkan, Joanna Under its current owners, Fenway Sports Group, Anfield has seen a remarkable change. However, because demand for tickets continually outpaces supply, is there any hope of further growth?

Anfield could only hold 45,362 spectators when FSG took over the team in2010. Although there were discussions about moving elsewhere, they ultimately decided to stay at Anfield.

The Anfield Road Stand saw an amazing transformation that increased capacity to 61,000 seats, although the Main Stand was the first to undergo significant renovations, adding 9,000 seats in 2016.

Although it has completely changed Liverpool’s spiritual home from the one FSG inherited, is there still room for growth at the stadium going forward? Pay attention within instead of outside.

Pay attention within instead of outside.

To put it mildly, expanding Anfield further presents challenges.There is nowhere to construct because the Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand and the Kop run parallel to residences, a major road, and stores, respectively.

If they were to consider major alterations, which is improbable, it would have a tremendous effect on the neighbourhood that currently surrounds the stadium.

Instead, as an FSG chief previously stated, attention is likely to move to other areas of the current stadium.

“We’ll see what ancillary development might be possible,” FSG CEO Sam Kennedy stated in 2022 at a conference.

Even though Fenway is a residential area, it is also zoned for retail, hospitality, entertainment, and other uses. We must acknowledge and show respect for Anfield’s status as a residential area.

“In the future, you’ll probably see us focusing more inside than outside.”

One such example is the Kop Bar in the Kop, which took the place of the former club store. Another example is the proposed “underground fan zone” in the brand-new Anfield Road Stand.

Improved concourses, additional hospitality lounges, and newly constructed public bike and foot routes are all included in this kind of localised development.

Development can see a decrease in capacity.

The Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand, the oldest in the stadium with the least amount of legroom and supporter amenities, would probably be the next stand to be developed.

A report from 2023 stated that “FSG will look to improve the Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand, which has a current capacity of 12,000,” although it is not currently in the works.

“If they do, and no decision has been made yet, then capacity would actually decrease when the bottom tier’s spaces are reconfigured to provide supporters more room.”

The article was written by Alex Miller, a reporter for the Mail on Sunday who has extensive knowledge of stadium-related issues from FSG’s time in office.

While supporters wouldn’t find more seats as a result, the stand would be updated with more contemporary amenities and roomier interior concourses, making it over thirty years old.

Though it would be wonderful to imagine a makeover akin to that of the Main Stand or Anfield Road End, it is simply unfeasible given the completely occupied residences situated right behind the stand on Skerries Road.

Council strategy

As we’ve already mentioned, there isn’t much room in the local area around the ground, so FSG can’t pursue a large development on the land that is currently there.

They have previously tried it with the renowned home of the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park.

Nonetheless, Liverpool Council is moving forward with more neighbourhood revitalization, including plans for a £4 million project to modernise the stadium’s major thoroughfare.

With “a visually more appealing and healthier public street scene” as a top objective, the goal is to “create a greener and safer experience for residents and visitors.”

The council intends to explore a “new development that is rooted and focused on community inclusion” for the Anfield Square, which is the area across from the club shop on Walton Breck Road (see top picture). Updates are anticipated this summer.

The Anfield Square will not become a hotel. There is still plenty of room for internal and external growth at Anfield, even though major changes like those to the Main Stand and Anfield Road End are unlikely.

July 3, 2024
Arne Slot, the new head coach of Liverpool, has revealed details about FSG’s stealthy transfer strategy.

Much may be gleaned as new Liverpool head coach Arne Slot gave a few indications about his Anfield design.

The hard work does not begin here. It was only a brief aside during a lengthy welcome interview, but Arne Slot quickly allayed the anxieties of the more concerned Liverpool fans.

Slot’s radio silence since being confirmed as the next Reds head coach had some fans concerned, especially given how chatty the Dutchman had been on the matter when still in charge of Feyenoord.

That, however, was just the 45-year-old gently answering inquiries about the situation. And it was the same display of respect, this time for his predecessor Jurgen Klopp, that convinced Slot to wait until Wednesday before Liverpool fans heard from the new manager and got a first view of his footballing principles and practices.

Slot, on the other hand, hasn’t only been sunbathing himself on a well-deserved family vacation in Ibiza in recent weeks. And, while it appears that little has been occurring at Liverpool, developments behind the scenes tell a little different narrative.

This was clear on Wednesday, when the Reds’ manager disclosed several more members of his new backroom team during his conversation. The appointments of Sipke Hulshoff as his assistant and Ruben Peeters as Liverpool’s head of performance were anticipated, but Fabian Otte was named the club’s new head of first team custodian coaching.

Slot also unwittingly addressed another issue that had piqued interest since it was revealed his title would be head coach rather than manager, especially given the complete overhaul of the football operation with Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group in preparation for what is expected to be a multi-club model.

While prevalent in Europe, the post of head coach is viewed with mistrust in England. For traditionalists, the manager remains the manager. By definition, any other title implies the opposite. While there is never a genuine concern about tampering with team selection and tactics, the same cannot be said for transfer deals.

But Slot hit them on the head with his references to new Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes, who detailed regular talks about the squad, including new signings, potential sales, and contracts, which is relevant given the situations of Virgil van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Mohamed Salah. Slot will undoubtedly be as active in recruitment and squad planning as Klopp was.

It also illustrated the changing power dynamic between Liverpool and FSG. Michael Edwards has returned to the fold as FSG’s chief executive of football operations, but it is apparent that he will not be as involved in the Reds’ day-to-day operations as he was in prior capacities. Hughes now takes on that responsibility.

Slot, who came across well in the interview and appeared to be easygoing and friendly, is not Klopp. But then, who is? To his credit, the new guy was unafraid to mention his predecessor, exposing conversations between the two and the impact the German’s approaches had on his own coaching. Slot, on the other hand, was determined that, for all of the counsel he received from the former Reds manager and suggestions gleaned from observing old training sessions, he would be entirely his own man. Rather of tossing history out of his rucksack, Slot keeps the pieces he requires before ascending his own mountains.

Indeed, the top in question is high. The tone of Slot’s interview was one of building on what he had inherited, with a throwaway statement noting “we would all like to see Liverpool a little higher than third place.” Rather than shying away from ambition, Slot embraces it.

One thing that hasn’t changed with the change of manager is the emphasis on pre-season, even if the impact of the European Championships and Copa America means preparations won’t be ideal. Liverpool has three games scheduled in the United States this summer, with more to come. It is unlikely that there will be a training camp overseas with work limited to the AXA Training Centre, but games behind closed doors at Kirkby are not impossible. The Reds seek to schedule a last friendly at Anfield before the Premier League season begins against Ipswich on August 17. If not, Slot’s debut match at his new home ground will be against Brentford the following Sunday.

“There is a change, but hopefully it isn’t that big,” says the Reds manager. “We still have the same players and fans, and if they both do the same job, it will make my life much easier! I expect them to return in the future season, as will the players.”

Evolution, not revolution, was the watchword during Klopp’s final year in command, and it appears to be the most accurate description of what Slot hopes to achieve in the near future at Liverpool – albeit very much in his own image. The hard work has only just begun.

June 20, 2024
Liverpool’s £3.2 billion takeover might exceed all records, according to John Henry and FSG.

John Henry appears to have left the door open for a Liverpool takeover that might break all-time records.

The Fenway Sports Group president last sought investment in the team in 2022, bringing investment firm Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley on board to discuss potential choices.

However, the search concluded in September of last year, when FSG sold a minority holding to Dynast Equity for between £82 million and £164 million.

Henry paid £300 million for Liverpool in 2010, and he has not indicated that he wants a return on his investment just yet.

However, the newest news from Boston suggests that his position on Liverpool’s future is not as firm as some may believe.

John Henry does not rule out Liverpool takeover.

When asked by the Financial Times whether he is considering selling any of his sporting properties, the 74-year-old responded in what some may regard as an equivocal manner.

While Henry was quick to make assurances concerning the future of his baseball team, the Boston Red Sox, he did not expressly reaffirm his long-term plans for Liverpool.

“My wife and I live and work in Boston,” he stated. “We are committed to the city and region. So the Sox will not be for sale. We normally do not sell assets.”

Experts believe the Liverpool takeover might be worth £3.2 billion.

According to a recent analysis conducted by industry experts Football Benchmark, Liverpool’s enterprise worth is £3.2 billion.

This amount, which has increased by 7% in the last year, places them as the world’s fifth most valuable football club.

In theory, if the transaction goes through at that price, it will be the most expensive football takeover in history.

It would well exceed the value paid by American investor Todd Boehly for Chelsea in 2022.

The headline price for the sale was £4.25 billion, which reflected Boehly’s plans to invest £1.75 billion in the club, but the underlying value of the takeover was roughly £2.5 billion.

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Arne Slot is eyeing a £30 million deal for Liverpool

Crysencio Summerville

Before he talks with his team ahead of the impending transfer window, new Liverpool manager Arne Slot has a lot on his plate, and one player has already broken ranks and made a transfer demand.

With Arne Slot officially taking over as head coach of Liverpool, the Dutchman may be active in the transfer market.

Following Jurgen Klopp’s departure, the Reds are doing well after rebuilding last summer. But further acquisitions are anticipated as Slot aims to contend for significant awards in his rookie campaign.

Merseyside has already been connected to a number of players, and rumours about big names like Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah continue.

Outgoings are also anticipated in the upcoming weeks, as Liverpool is now managed by a new person. As we get ready for the window, Mirror Football has all the most recent Anfield news here.

Slot sights a £30 million deal

Liverpool is reportedly interested in acquiring Crysencio Summerville, a winger for Leeds United.

The 23-year-old Dutchman is anticipated to depart Elland Road after Daniel Farke’s team was unable to secure promotion through the play-offs. He was named Championship Player of the Season after scoring 19 goals and dishing out nine assists for Leeds.

The £30 million-rated winger has reportedly drawn interest from a number of elite teams, including Liverpool. Leeds is expecting offers for its highly sought-after asset during the forthcoming transfer window, according to recent reports.

June 11, 2024
When asked about selling Liverpool, FSG chief John W Henry responded in five words.

Liverpool is owned by both John W Henry and FSG. The Reds are going through a moment of transition, and Henry has been questioned again whether he will sell the Anfield club.

Fenway Sports Group (FSG) CEO John W Henry rarely speaks, but in a rare interview, the Liverpool owner discussed a variety of themes.

In a series of interviews for a feature with the Financial Times, Henry briefly discussed Liverpool FC and his other sporting clubs, including the Boston Red Sox and the Pittsburgh Penguins. And he attempted to downplay the possibility of selling any of those assets.

Henry praised Jurgen Klopp’s’simply fantastic’ Anfield tenure. “The force of his personality and emotions lifted all of us who support the club to a level I’ve not seen before anywhere,” he stated.

When asked if he would ever sell the Boston Red Sox, Liverpool, or the Pittsburgh Penguins, Henry responded, “My wife and I live and work in Boston. We are committed to the city and region. So the Sox will not be for sale.”

That does not directly address the potential of Liverpool being sold at some point, as FSG has just attracted financing. It sold a minority ownership in Liverpool to US private equity group Dynasty Equity in September, following rumours that the entire club was for sale. However, Henry noted, “We generally don’t sell assets.”

To move past the Klopp era, FSG has made several fresh appointments behind the scenes. Michael Edwards has been named as the group’s football CEO, while Julian Ward is working alongside him. Meanwhile, Richard Hughes is the Reds’ new sporting director, and Pedro Marques, a highly rated technical director, has joined from Benfica.

The moves will help Liverpool move forward, but FSG also intends to extend its football portfolio. The process of choosing a second team to join what would become a multi-club format is beginning, and Edwards would oversee both operations with a much broader remit than the position he vacated in 2021.

Liverpool.com says: FSG has made mistakes at Liverpool in the past, but it is apparent that long-term planning has begun. The multi-club approach being used is something Reds fans should keep an eye on. While many may find it unpleasant, Edwards has already stated that he sees it as the sport’s future. Liverpool and FSG will not want to go left behind.

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Following the announcement of Manchester United’s transfer statement, Liverpool is “leading race for £102 million” midfielder.

Joao Neves, a midfielder for Benfica, is reportedly being linked to Liverpool in a mega-money transfer.

According to reports, Liverpool will have competition this summer from Chelsea, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich in the fight for Benfica midfield player Joao Neves.

The 19-year-old midfielder’s breakout season, which saw him play in 55 games across all competitions, has been linked to a big-money move away from the Estadio da Luz.

Shortly after Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s minority ownership was disclosed in January, Neves was linked to a move to United; however, Benfica denied rumours that the Portugal international was in talks to move to Old Trafford.

O Jogo, however, claims that Neves will be the focus of an enormous financial bidding battle involving some of the best teams in Europe. The Reds, United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain are all rumoured to be interested in signing the 19-year-old. Liverpool and the other three Premier League teams are allegedly “leading the race” for the midfield player, though.

According to the article, if Neves were to leave Benfica this summer, the team would require any potential bidders to fulfil his £102.3 million release clause.

When asked in February about his future at Benfica, Neves responded, “Will you be staying at Benfica next year? Nothing about the upcoming season is guaranteed. Right now, I would like to remain at Benfica, but we shall see—you never know. His current deal with Benfica expires in 2028.

June 7, 2024