Liverpool are gearing up for a major summer shake-up in midfield, with the club now ready to open talks over a potential £80 million move for one of the Premier League's brightest young stars.
Midfield reinforcements have become the top priority for sporting director Richard Hughes, as the Reds look to strengthen a key area of the pitch that has long needed fresh energy and depth. Anfield Watch understands the club has already drawn up an ambitious shortlist of targets, with the recruitment department currently assessing several high-profile names.
The urgency to add new faces has only grown due to uncertainty surrounding some of Liverpool's current midfield options. Contract negotiations with Alexis Mac Allister have reportedly stalled, casting doubt on his long-term future at Anfield. Meanwhile, homegrown talent Curtis Jones is entering the final year of his current deal, creating another unresolved situation that needs addressing.
These concerns have increased the likelihood of significant changes before next season kicks off. Liverpool are expected to target at least two new midfielders this summer, with that number potentially rising if both Mac Allister and Jones eventually move on. Strengthening the engine room is seen internally as a crucial step to maintain competitiveness, improve squad depth, and ensure long-term stability as Arne Slot continues to reshape the team in his image.
The club has already built a developing shortlist featuring names like Mamadou Sangare, Lamine Camara, Caleb Yirenkyi, Mateus Fernandes, Ayyoubb Bouaddi, and Kees Smit — among others. The key for Liverpool's recruitment team will be finding the right balance between experience and youth, staying true to the club's current transfer policy.
At the very top of that list, however, is Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton. The 20-year-old England international has emerged as Liverpool's priority midfield target, with the club viewing him as the perfect player to help Slot's side evolve. Palace are expected to demand around £80 million for their prized asset, but that hefty price tag hasn't deterred Liverpool from making their move.