Liverpool’s midfield revamp stalls as Brazil target walks away

Liverpool have been forced to plug a midfield void as their core group underperformed in Arne Slot’s 2025/26 Premier League campaign, prompting the Reds to seek a new No 6 or No 8 after Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister fell short of their 2024/25 title‑winning form. The most publicised option was 25‑year‑old Joao Gomes, a Brazil‑born midfield enforcer who impressed at Flamengo before joining Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2023. Liverpool were offered the chance to sign him on Wolves’ existing terms, a deal valued at £38 million, but the club ultimately declined. According to the report, the Reds’ recruitment team weighed up that deal and opted for a different type of profile. The recruitment team opted for a different type of profile.

Why Andoni Iraola backs Victor Munoz as Liverpool’s new attack

Financially, Liverpool have already committed significant sums this summer, including £450 million spent by Richard Hughes last season and further outlays on Victor Munoz and Jeremy Jacquet. The club appears to be pursuing a one‑in‑one‑out policy, with potential cash raised from the sales of Harvey Elliott, Stefan Bajcetic and a possible €40 million transfer of Curtis Jones to Inter Milan. Attention has now shifted to Adam Wharton, the 22‑year‑old England international who joined Crystal Palace in 2024 from Blackburn Rovers on a contract to 2029. Palace value him at around £100 million, and Liverpool’s scouts have identified him as the leading candidate to reinforce the midfield.

Liverpool keep Curtis Jones as Nottingham Forest move collapses

Bet £10, Get £30 in Free Bets – 18+ New UK/ROI customers. FREE CLAIM NOW.