Liverpool Strengthens: Analysis of a Million-Dollar Investment
A year ago, Liverpool’s fanbase was in a moment of uncertainty, following the departure of their iconic coach, Jürgen Klopp. Despite a promising season that saw them lead the table in April, injuries relegated the team to third place. However, the management’s response was clear: “We will continue.”
After failing to secure the signing of Martín Zubimendi, Liverpool closed the summer transfer market of 2024 with the incorporation of Giorgi Mamardashvili and Federico Chiesa. This decision raised questions about the club’s strategy and its ability to compete at the highest level.
Liverpool’s summer wasn’t taken seriously by many. The team, considered the third-best in the league in the 2023-24 season, hadn’t made significant changes. In fact, the predictions of many experts indicated that Liverpool wouldn’t qualify for the Champions League.
But, how has this radical change been possible? And, what’s even more intriguing, why is Liverpool, known for signing undervalued players, investing so much in a market that seems irrational and inefficient?
Unprecedented Investment
Liverpool has made significant acquisitions, with figures that, although not exact, offer a clear view of their expenses:
- Florian Wirtz, attacking midfielder, from Bayer Leverkusen for €125 million.
- Hugo Ekitike, forward, from Eintracht Frankfurt for €95 million.
- Milos Kerkez, full-back, from Bournemouth for €46.9 million.
- Jeremie Frimpong, full-back, from Bayer Leverkusen for €40 million.
Additionally, the club has sold several key players:
- Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen for €35 million.
- Caoimhín Kelleher to Brentford for €14.8 million.
- Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid for €10 million.
The club is expected to continue strengthening its squad, with the possible signing of Alexander Isak from Newcastle United. In addition, more reinforcements could arrive, depending on the departures of players such as Luis Díaz, who could go to Bayern Munich for around €75 million, and Darwin Núñez.
Considering the amortization of signings and income from sales, Liverpool has room to invest even more this summer. Added to this is the club’s solid financial situation, which is expected to close the year with profits.
In the last three years, Liverpool has had less investment in signings compared to other Premier League teams. This, added to their success on the field, has allowed them to build a solid financial base and comply with league regulations.
Strategy and Perspectives
Liverpool needed a revamp. With key players nearing the end of their careers, the club faces the challenge of maintaining its competitiveness. The arrival of Michael Edwards as CEO of football at Fenway Sports Group marks a turning point in the club’s strategy.
The signings of Mamardashvili, Kerkez, and Frimpong reflect the intention to renew the squad and secure the team’s future. The investment in Wirtz is seen as a long-term bet, a player with the potential to become a star.
The possible arrival of Isak raises doubts about the club’s strategy. Investing in two center forwards could be redundant, especially if it prevents reinforcing other areas of the team.
Liverpool is investing in the market because it can and because it needs to. The objective is clear: to build a team that continues to dominate English and European football.
