Julian Ward already making plans for first Liverpool signing

On Saturday Julian Ward was announced as Liverpool’s new sporting director, the replacement for Richard Hughes.

It is a role that Ward knows well, having held the position for a year before stepping down in 2023, and marks the next stage of an association with the Reds that stretches back to 2012.

Speaking to the club following the appointment Ward stressed that he knew the challenges that lay ahead and highlighted his past experience with the club, and now it is time for the Englishman to get to work.

With the winter window fast approaching, Ward has reportedly already identified his first signing.

Ward to move for former target in January window

One of Liverpool’s biggest weaknesses this season has been their midfield, and recruiting a fresh face in the middle of the park is likely to be a top priority over the next two transfer windows.

According to a report from Football Insider, this is something Ward is well aware of, and Aurelien Tchouameni is being targeted as a potential solution.

The report states that Ward is preparing to reignite the interest he held in the Frenchman in his last stint as Liverpool’s sporting director, before the midfielder made the move to Real Madrid.

The 26-year-old has been frequently linked with a Merseyside move in the years since he joined Madrid but Ward’s appointment could be the catalyst that finally sees him join the Reds.

Tchouameni’s contract in Madrid runs until 2031, giving the Spanish giants the upper hand in negotiations, but the Reds have proven over the last 18 months that they are willing to spend big for the right player.

Ward’s first signing in his second stint as sporting director could well be Tchouameni, ending a five year pursuit for the midfielder that could bring real balance and quality to Iraola’s side.