Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola outlines urgent summer recruitment to replace Salah

Andoni Iraola used his inaugural press conference as Liverpool’s head coach to unveil an aggressive summer transfer strategy aimed at filling the void left by Mohamed Salah’s departure and bolstering squad depth before the early‑September deadline.

Iraola confirmed that two signings – a centre‑back and a young striker – have already been completed, but warned that “we need more players, we know this” as the squad still lacks depth across the pitch.

The primary targets identified are Paris Saint‑Germain’s emerging talent Bradley Barcola and Brighton’s promising winger Yankuba Minteh, both described as fitting the profile of pace, technical ability and the hunger to step up at Anfield.

Earlier interest in RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande fell through after the Ivorian chose PSG, prompting Liverpool to pivot to the alternative options and accelerate negotiations with Barcola and Minteh.

Iraola also hinted at possible midfield reinforcement, noting that any incoming midfielders will likely depend on player departures, while defensive reinforcements are on the radar after a leaky backline last season.

“The coach’s remarks underscored the urgency of the situation: ‘As a coach, selfishly, you want the players here day one, ready to train from the pre‑season, but we understand that football doesn’t work like this,’” he said, emphasizing a hands‑on approach to recruitment.

Liverpool’s hierarchy now faces mounting pressure from fans and stakeholders to assemble a squad capable of challenging for titles, with talks with the identified targets have been accelerated to meet the transfer‑window deadline.

If the targeted signings materialise, Liverpool could reshape their attacking line‑up and add depth in midfield and defence, positioning the club for a stronger start to the new season and avoiding a repeat of last term’s 20‑defeat campaign.