Michael Edwards’ return to FSG will mean a number of changes for Liverpool. For one, it signals FSG’s intentions to move towards a multi-club model. For two it also means plenty of new arrivals at boardroom level.
One of those is expected to be Richard Hughes, who could be named as the club’s new sporting director. And there are others who could also follow suit. It will mean a slight deviation in terms of transfer strategy for Liverpool.
Under Jurgen Klopp, the club had been loyal to its longest serving stars. The likes of Jordan Henderson were awarded long-term contracts even past their peak and beyond the age of 30-years-old. Under Edwards, that will probably not be the case.
Liverpool will instead seek value in the market, and will offload players who are no longer performing to the high standards that the club expects them to perform at. That could see iconic players leave the club and be replaced by fresh blood.
Rayan Ait-Nouri could be a perfect signing for Liverpool
One area where Edwards could look to invest this summer is in the left-back department. While Kostas Tsimikas and Andy Robertson have both done well this season, neither player is getting any younger.
This summer could be a time for Liverpool to address the position and find a long-term candidate, who has the potential to ultimately replace Robertson in the team.
One such option could be Rayan Ait-Nouri. The 22-year-old has been linked with a move to Liverpool recently, and he would tick a lot of boxes for the Reds.
Ait-Nouri is fast, and has the ability to run up and down that left flank. He’s got a bit of flair about him as well. Among left-backs in the Premier League this season – no one averages more dribbles per 90 (4.38) than Ait-Nouri (Wyscout).
His underlying numbers in terms of creativity are not great. But 17 goal contributions in just over 100 appearances for Wolves is not the worst return for a full-back. Ait-Nouri also has five goal contributions in his last eight matches for the club – and is clearly still not the finished article at 22-years-old.
With two years left on his contract, this summer will be the perfect time for Edwards to strike a deal. It would mean Tsimikas could move onto pastures new, while Ait-Nouri will be able to learn and hone his trade from the very best in Robertson and ultimately succeed the Scotsman. That would be the perfect scenario not just for Liverpool but probably all the parties involved. Now it’s just up to Edwards to make it happen. If anyone can, it’s him. It probably also helps that Edwards is on very good terms with Wolves manager, Gary O’Neil, who he knows from their time together at Portsmouth.