Stephen Killen

Liverpool are pursuing Paris Saint-Germain forwards Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye, with discussions expected to continue. Barcola is reportedly keen on a move after limited playing time, but PSG are holding to a valuation of about £130 million. Luis Enrique refused to clarify whether either player would leave, responding only, “Thank you, goodbye.” Liverpool have also considered other attacking options, including Maghnes Akliouche, who has since joined PSG.

Steven Gerrard will take on a permanent, more prominent role as a TNT Sports pundit and co-commentator covering the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup. The former Liverpool captain has been out of management since leaving Al-Ettifaq and recently declined opportunities involving Rangers and Burnley. Although he remains open to eventually managing Liverpool or returning to coaching, Gerrard says he currently values his family time, work-life balance and broadcasting career.

AS Monaco have reportedly rejected a fourth Paris Saint-Germain offer for Liverpool target Maghnes Akliouche, valued at about €45 million. Despite Liverpool having made an approach, Akliouche is reported to prefer joining PSG and may have informed Liverpool of that decision. PSG and Monaco are continuing negotiations, potentially leaving Liverpool an opportunity if no agreement is reached. Liverpool are also preparing talks over PSG winger Bradley Barcola, although his estimated £140 million valuation could prove prohibitive.

A consortium led by Amit Bhatia is negotiating with Fenway Sports Group for up to a 30% minority stake in Liverpool, with reports indicating an eventual ambition to take full control of the club. Jeff Bezos and Eduardo Saverin have been linked with the investment group, while Liverpool chief executive Billy Hogan confirmed only that FSG had received an approach for a strategic minority investment. The talks follow Dynasty Equity’s 2023 investment and come amid changes in Liverpool’s football leadership, including Michael Edwards’s departure and reported interest in Richard Hughes from Saudi Arabia.

Lucas Herbert maintained the lead at The Open after shooting a record‑equalling 62, while concerns over his caddie Nick Pugh’s use of a rangefinder were dismissed when the R&A confirmed the device lacked a battery and could not measure distances. Pugh had received prior approval from officials earlier in the week. Herbert’s score was matched by Sam Burns, while several notable players, including Cameron Smith and Aaron Rai, hovered near the cut line as dry conditions continued to shape the tournament.

Jamie Carragher highlighted the possibility of Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot facing each other in international management, with Klopp reportedly close to taking charge of Germany and Slot linked to the Netherlands job following Ronald Koeman’s resignation. Reports suggest Klopp is set to replace Julian Nagelsmann, while Slot could assume the Holland role without forfeiting his Liverpool severance package. Carragher praised Slot’s achievements at Liverpool and wished him success should he return to management. The article also details the financial implications of Slot’s departure and includes excerpts from his farewell message to Liverpool supporters.

Gary Neville identified Ryan Gravenberch as the Liverpool player he would sign for Manchester United, praising the midfielder’s development under Arne Slot and his role in Liverpool’s title-winning season. United’s ongoing midfield rebuild, including the signings of Andrey Santos and the expected arrival of Youri Tielemans, framed Neville’s comments on their needs. Neville also expressed admiration for Jurgen Klopp’s management style and Liverpool’s peak attacking lineup, highlighting their intensity and quality during Klopp’s tenure.

Jurgen Klopp is set to become Germany’s new head coach after Julian Nagelsmann’s resignation following a World Cup Round of 32 exit. Klopp, currently working with Red Bull and serving as a World Cup pundit, has confirmed talks with the German FA and is expected to sign a long‑term deal. His appointment would see him lead the team into Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup. Klopp, who left Liverpool in 2024 and later joined Red Bull’s global football operation, has remained a sought‑after managerial figure, linked with multiple top clubs. Discussions continue regarding his departure from Red Bull as preparations begin for his return to management.