Richard Hughes faces make‑or‑break moment as £48m chase looms

Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s sporting director, knows the window is closing after Brentford reached a €48 million agreement to sign Mamadou Sangare from RC Lens, a deal Liverpool could still hijack. The former Bournemouth chief arrived at Anfield with a strong reputation after an impressive spell with the Cherries.

Hughes' track record had been hugely impressive, yet his two‑year spell at Liverpool has been relatively mixed.

Last summer he oversaw several high‑profile arrivals and backed the manager in the transfer market. However, spending heavily is only one part of the job.

Building a balanced squad proved elusive, and he failed to deliver that balance last summer. Liverpool entered this summer needing reinforcements in several key positions.

Progress this summer has been painfully slow, leaving obvious gaps as the new season approaches. Rivals have moved much more decisively in the market.

Missing priority targets has added frustration and prompted supporters to question whether Liverpool are reactive rather than proactive. Reports have linked Hughes to a possible move away from the club.

The uncertainty surrounding his future has not helped the transfer momentum. Nevertheless, there is still time for Hughes to turn the window around.

The midfield, once seen as a strength, now shows unresolved issues, with Alexis Mac Allister attracting interest from leading clubs and his contract talks stalled. Curtis Jones, entering the final year of his deal, also faces a crossroads that could force Liverpool’s hand. Since Fabinho’s 2023 departure, Liverpool have searched for a long‑term defensive‑midfield solution, even pursuing Moises Caicedo without success.

Ryan Gravenberch has adapted impressively as the deepest midfielder, yet his skill set may be better suited to a more progressive role. For Andoni Iraola’s high‑intensity system, a specialist No. 6 would provide defensive security while supporting build‑up play. Mamadou Sangare has been linked as the ideal profile, ticking every box for the system.

Brentford have struck a €48 million agreement to sign Sangare from RC Lens, a deal not yet completed. Liverpool would have to act immediately to hijack the transfer, putting the onus squarely on Hughes.