Liverpool’s summer transfer business is in danger of being interrupted by this summer’s international football.
The Reds are preparing for their first transfer window under Arne Slot, with a number of targets already being put forward.
However, with both Euro 2024 and the Copa America taking place between June and July, incomings at Anfield may be compromised.
There have been reports that Liverpool are keen to wrap up their business by the start of July. With so many potential targets – and a whole host of their first-team squad – away in the meantime though, that could be tricky.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, at least one player of interest to Liverpool will not be moving until after the summer’s football has concluded.
Shakhtar Donetsk to wait for Georgiy Sudakov transfer
It’s never easy doing business while summer tournaments are going on. As well as the logistics of sorting out transfers, there’s always the danger of good performances affecting price-tags.
On the flip side, if you’re trying to sell a player, poor displays could have a negative impact on the chances of completing a deal.
Nevertheless, any club has a prerogative to hold off and see if they can earn more for a player.
One who Jacobs claims that will apply to this year is Shakhtar Donetsk’s Georgiy Sudakov. The Ukrainian midfielder has reportedly caught Liverpool’s eye, with the Reds previously claimed to be leading the race for him.
Taking to X on Monday, Jacobs does not mention Liverpool’s supposed interest. However, the journalist does report that any club hoping to buy Sudakov will have to spend at least £60m and be willing to wait a little while.
“Shakhtar ideally want to sell Giorgi Sudakov after Euro 2024 giving them time to analyse offers,” Jacobs says. “They hope the tournament will also raise Sudakov’s value further. Understand it’s likely to take close to €70m for suitors to succeed. Spurs interest remains.”
Would Georgiy Sudakov suit Liverpool?
Sudakov looks like a silky player who could light up one of the major European leagues.
At just 21 he’s already played over 100 times for Shakhtar and has 14 caps for Ukraine. He’s a big talent.
However, as Mikhailo Mudryk’s expensive move to Chelsea has highlighted, it’s a big jump from the Ukrainian Premier League to English football.
READ MORE: Liverpool waiting to hear price-tag for ‘top talent’ after scouting him
£60m would sound like really big gamble on a player who has never played at that kind of level.
In our opinion, that makes Sudakov unlikely to join Liverpool this summer. Aside from the fact that he’s a creative midfield player – which the Reds aren’t really looking for – it isn’t like FSG to take such a gamble.
With Liverpool also looking to tie new players down early, we think this is the final nail in the coffin for the Reds and Sudakov.