Andoni Iraola to make first transfer demand at Liverpool

Andoni Iraola Richard Hughes Liverpool
© IMAGO - Andoni Iraola Richard Hughes Liverpool

Andoni Iraola has a lot of work to do with his Liverpool team this summer.

The Reds massively underperformed during the 2025-26 season with fans demanding that changes are made.

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And, even though most people didn't expect Arne Slot to be relived of his duties, Fenway Sports Group got rid of him and replaced him with the Spaniard.

Several players have already exited Liverpool ahead of the 2026-27 season so there are already many players that Liverpool need to target.

Their attack is surely going to be their first point of call with Iraola already making his first transfer demand to Richard Hughes.

Andoni Iraola has asked Richard Hughes to sign Rayan from Bournemouth

Now that Mohamed Salah has left, Liverpool have a gaping hole in their attack that needs to be filled.

Many players such as Yan Diomande, Bazoumana Toure and Bradley Barcola have all been linked with potential switches.

However, with the World Cup now underway, it's unlikely for any moves to be made due to the risk of injury and potential increase that players could add to their value.

This doesn't mean that the Reds can't at least start looking at the players that they want to sign with a fresh report from RTI Esporte outlining that Iraola has could ask Liverpool to sign Rayan from Bournemouth this summer.

"Rayan's name has once again gained traction behind the scenes of European football," the Brazilian outlet wrote.

"Discovered by Vasco and currently a standout player for Bournemouth, the Brazilian striker is among the candidates being considered by Liverpool for the future of their attacking line.

"The RTI Esporte agency has learned that the move has gained even more relevance after Andoni Iraola's arrival at Liverpool. The coach knows the player well from his time at Bournemouth and may request his signing for the new sporting project at Anfield.

Although there is no official offer yet, the mere possibility of a transfer is already attracting attention at São Januário. Vasco is closely monitoring any negotiations involving the striker and could benefit financially if the deal goes through.

"Rayan's potential arrival at Liverpool also finds support in the profile sought by the new coach.

"Andoni Iraola worked with the striker at Bournemouth and knows his characteristics of speed, dribbling ability, and aggressiveness in one-on-one duels.

"Familiarity between coach and player can be an important advantage in a potential transfer market. Furthermore, Liverpool is exploring options to revitalize its attack with promising names in the medium term."

Rayan would be a crazy transfer for Liverpool to pull off

Even though many talented players have been linked with a Liverpool switch, Rayan is the best of the lot.

The Brazilian has only played half a season in the Premier League but, during that time he's contributed to seven goals and has played across the front three.

During the 2024-25 season, the attacker was one of Vasco da Gama's best players as he played 57 games across all competitions and scored 20 goals.

This versatility, coupled with his keen eye for goal as well as the fact that he's only 17 years old make him an incredible coup for almost any team.

However, since his release clause is set at £130 million, it's unlikely that he'll be sold for a reasonable fee.

But, if Iraola can manage to persuade the youngster to force his way out and join him at Anfield, it could help their pursuit of him.

Some serious moves are expected to be made after the World Cup by Liverpool and, if Rayan is one of them, it'll be an unreal turn of events.

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