It’s a fairly open fact that FSG wants to assist Michael Edwards’ return to Liverpool in the coming months, with one final round of talks allegedly underway in the Reds’ final bid to entice their former sporting director back to Anfield. If Edwards does return, sources suggest he may collaborate with a current Premier League technical director.
Liverpool’s Next Sports Director
Unlike his previous post, Edwards is expected to have more authority at Liverpool this time around, taking on the burden of shaping the next Anfield era following Jurgen Klopp’s departure. So far, however, he has rejected FSG’s attempts to lure him back to Merseyside, causing frustration for the American owners, who have been pushing to sign him in the coming months.
Meanwhile, the Reds are looking for a new manager, with Xabi Alonso currently at the top of their list. According to recent reports, Liverpool has offered Alonso a three-year contract and is now awaiting his response amidst interest from both Bayern Munich and Anfield.
On the plus side, it looks the Reds are close to reaching an agreement with both Edwards and Bournemouth’s Richard Hughes, according to David Ornstein’s report on Friday evening.
“Michael Edwards is close to accepting to a top post with FSG, which will include management of Liverpool’s football operations. If he accepts, Richard Hughes will join LFC as sporting director. Not yet completed, but discussions are moving forward, with a conclusion likely early next week.”
Richard Hughes’ most expensive Bournemouth signings.
Reds fans are well aware of Edwards, but what about Hughes? Since 2014, he has led Bournemouth to success in the Premier League, becoming a household name in England’s top division.
Fabrizio Romano described him as a “strong candidate,” and his best move may have been to select Andoni Iraola after parting ways with Gary O’Neil in an unexpected decision at the time. Iraola has since had a fantastic time, with the south coast side comfortably placed in mid-table.
After a decade at the Vitality Stadium, Hughes appears to be ready for a huge move, with Liverpool appearing as a potential destination. It would be a significant step up, without a question, but Hughes has demonstrated that he is prepared, particularly over the last year or two.
When the summer arrives, FSG hopes to have both Edwards and Hughes at the helm as the club restructures for a new era at Anfield.
