SerpApi.Org
Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola reinforced his claim that his team needs a new winger this summer, as he continues to make a plea to FSG and the sporting department for new arrivals.
It comes as the manager already stated his need for a new forward in his introductory press conference, believing that a replacement for Mohamed Salah was a priority for the team heading into the new season.
Several targets have been identified as options, with Bradley Barcola heavily linked with a switch to Anfield among several other possible arrivals.
So far, there has been little movement on that front, except for the arrival of Victor Munoz from Osasuna as a depth option, with Iraola making it clear once again that more signings are required.
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When asked about the number of transfers he believes are required this summer for Liverpool, the head coach admitted he was unsure, but promptly reasserted the need for a new wide player.
He told the press during the pre-season tour in Chicago: "It's difficult to say a number. You always have to be open to options to improve the squad.
"We analyse the market. It depends on a lot of things. We definitely need to sign a winger."
It is yet another clear plea from the manager for the hierarchy to get some moves done at the top end of the pitch, with Liverpool's relative inactivity potentially leaving the club behind in the market.
The end of the World Cup should help accelerate activity across the transfer window, with players now fully focused on club soccer and their futures beyond their involvement with the national team.
A winger remains a top priority, especially on the right, due to the relative lack of options available to Iraola following Salah's exit as a free agent.
Partner that with Federico Chiesa's expected move this summer, and that leaves just Cody Gakpo, Rio Ngumoha, and Munoz as the only natural selections across two key positions - barring a position change for someone like Jeremie Frimpong.
Only once a winger arrives to replace the output and influence of Salah can the Reds consider the other options that may be on the table to improve key positions.
The midfield remains an area that could be strengthened, especially when it comes to energy and intensity, which is crucial to Iraola's style of play.
Then there is a right-sided defender, be that a centre-back or a right-back or someone who can play in both positions. The backline is light on options both in the short-term and long-term, and an arrival there could help lighten the pressure on several players.
That will all be secondary to a winger, however, which the rest of the summer market will be centred around.
