Nunez return odds tumble to evens
Darwin Nunez could walk back to Anfield for nothing. Bookmakers have slashed odds on the Uruguayan returning to Liverpool this summer to 1/1, with a free transfer from Al-Hilal now a real possibility (2). Nunez left for Saudi Arabia after things never quite clicked under Arne Slot, but his time in the Gulf has been difficult. Newcastle, AC Milan, Barcelona and Juventus are also in the conversation, but the odds tell you where the smart money is going.
Isak defended as a fit for Iraola's system
Alexander Isak had a tough first season after his £125m move from Newcastle. Critics sharpened their knives. But the case for Isak under Andoni Iraola is stronger than the noise suggests, with the Swede's movement and link-up play fitting the Basque coach's approach far better than what came before (1). He is a different player in the right setup, and that setup is now in place.
Liverpool ready to bid for Brighton's Minteh
Liverpool are reportedly ready to bid for Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh, seen as an alternative to the £80m-rated Yan Diomande (3). Iraola is a fan. The move is also tied to Manchester United's business, though exactly how remains unclear.
Mexican prodigy Gilberto Mora linked
A £20m Mexican prospect has surfaced on Liverpool's radar. Gilberto Mora is the name, though details are thin for now (4). Youth scouts appear to be at work.
Guimaraes saga could mirror Isak's exit
Newcastle could face another drawn-out saga. Bruno Guimaraes is being watched closely by Arsenal, and the question being asked on Tyneside is whether the Brazilian might force a move, much like Isak did before his switch to Liverpool (5). It is not happening yet, but the parallels are hard to ignore.
Fan reactions
Supporters are already looking ahead to reinforcements, with World Cup scouting threads popping up on the subreddit. Bradley Barcola's name keeps surfacing, with fans wondering whether a Diomande move to PSG could open the door for the French winger, who carries a reported €150m price tag from PSG. Read the full discussion here.