Hughes faces €50m midfield dilemma as United circle same target

Richard Hughes is under pressure to finalise Liverpool’s summer targets as Manchester United join the chase for a €50m-rated midfielder. The Reds’ sporting director remains at Anfield despite his own uncertain future, yet his transfer planning could define the club’s trajectory for 2026-27.

Liverpool’s need for midfield upgrades is acute after a disappointing 2025-26 campaign, with several first-team performers falling short of expectations. Andoni Iraola’s appointment as head coach offers fresh hope, but the Spaniard has warned that squad overhaul is essential to avoid repeating last season’s struggles.

The Reds’ stance on Khephren Thuram’s valuation has hardened, with Hughes’ team privately concluding that €50m is excessive for the French international. Liverpool had previously coveted Thuram before his move to Juventus, and the Bianconeri’s current asking price has reignited interest from multiple Premier League clubs.

Tuttosport Juventus are actively working to facilitate Thuram’s exit, describing the midfielder as no longer unsellable. The Italian giants are said to be targeting a Premier League destination, with Manchester United, Liverpool, and Nottingham Forest all monitoring the situation closely.

Curtis Jones’ future remains unresolved, leaving a significant gap in Liverpool’s midfield that Hughes must address. The club’s transfer strategy now hinges on whether they can secure value elsewhere, given their £450m outlay from last summer has left finances constrained.

Iraola’s ability to implement his philosophy will depend on Hughes’ ability to identify affordable, performance-enhancing recruits. Failure to act decisively could force the new manager into a deadline-day scramble, mirroring the uncertainty that blighted Arne Slot’s tenure.

Hughes must finalise Liverpool’s priority targets before the window closes, balancing ambition with fiscal responsibility. The coming weeks will determine whether the Reds can rebuild competitively or risk another underwhelming campaign.