The Kopite View

Liverpool supporters love debating one question more than almost any other:
Who is the greatest player in the club’s history?
This summer, Liverpool unveiled their list of the Top 100 men’s players, with the final rankings determined using statistics alongside votes from supporters, former players, journalists and a club panel.
When the countdown reached its conclusion, it was Steven Gerrard who claimed the top spot.
The final top five were:
1. Steven Gerrard
2. Kenny Dalglish
3. Ian Rush
4. Mohamed Salah
5. John Barnes
There can be no argument that every one of those names deserves to be among Liverpool’s greatest-ever players.
But for me, there is still only one number one.
Kenny Dalglish.

A Liverpool Legend in Every Sense
It is impossible to overstate what Dalglish means to Liverpool Football Club.
As a player, he combined extraordinary talent with remarkable consistency.
He scored goals.
Created goals.
Won trophies.
And delivered in the biggest moments.
He wasn’t simply a great footballer.
He became the face of one of the greatest teams English football has ever seen.

More Than Just a Player
What makes Dalglish unique is that his legacy extends far beyond his playing career.
He also became one of Liverpool’s most successful managers, guiding the club through some of its greatest triumphs while later helping the city through one of its darkest periods.
His compassion, dignity and leadership following the Hillsborough disaster ensured he became much more than a football icon.
He became a symbol of Liverpool itself.

Gerrard Deserves His Place
None of this should take anything away from Steven Gerrard.
He is rightly regarded as one of the finest midfielders the game has produced.
His loyalty to Liverpool, his unforgettable performances and his ability to inspire those around him made him a worthy winner of the poll.
Many supporters will quite rightly place him first.
There is no wrong answer when comparing players of this calibre.

Every Generation Has Its Hero
Perhaps that is what makes these debates so enjoyable.
Supporters who grew up watching Dalglish will naturally lean one way.
Those whose football memories began with Gerrard may feel differently.
Others will argue for Ian Rush, Mohamed Salah or John Barnes.
Liverpool have been fortunate enough to produce legends across every era.

My Number One
For me, though, Kenny Dalglish remains the greatest Liverpool player of all time.
Not simply because of the football.
But because of everything he represents.
His brilliance on the pitch.
His leadership off it.
His love for the club.
And his lifelong commitment to the people of Liverpool.
Congratulations to Steven Gerrard on topping the list.
He absolutely deserves to be recognised among the club’s greatest-ever players.
But when I’m asked who will always be Liverpool’s number one…
My answer will always be the same.
Kenny Dalglish.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

According to a report from Indykaila News, highly-rated youngster Junior Kroupi would be keen on a reunion with his former manager, Andoni Iraola.
The report claims that Kroupi would welcome the opportunity to work under Iraola again, with the pair having previously built a strong relationship. While no deal is said to be imminent, the suggestion is that the player would be interested should the opportunity arise.
Kroupi has earned a reputation as one of the brightest young attacking talents, and any potential move involving the forward is likely to attract attention from clubs across Europe.
At this stage, there has been no official confirmation from the player or any club, so the story should be treated as speculation until further updates emerge.
If the report proves to be accurate, a reunion between Junior Kroupi and Andoni Iraola would certainly be an intriguing storyline to watch in the coming weeks.
Source: Indykaila News.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool’s search for midfield reinforcements may have received an unexpected boost.
According to TuttoSport, Juventus are prepared to sell Khéphren Thuram this summer as they look to generate funds and create space in their squad for the possible arrival of Franck Kessié.
The report claims Liverpool remain interested in the French midfielder, alongside Manchester United and Nottingham Forest. However, none of the clubs are currently prepared to meet Juventus’ reported £43 million asking price.

Juventus Could Be Ready to Cash In
Thuram only joined Juventus last summer but has quickly established himself as an important player in midfield.
Despite that, the report suggests the Italian club are willing to consider a sale if it helps facilitate other business during the transfer window.
If accurate, it presents Liverpool with an opportunity they may not have expected just a few weeks ago.
Whether that opportunity develops into a formal pursuit remains to be seen.

Why Liverpool Like Thuram
It is no secret that Liverpool have admired Khéphren Thuram for some time.
The French international possesses many of the attributes modern midfielders require:
● Outstanding athleticism.
● Powerful ball carrying.
● Defensive intelligence.
● Ability to break opposition lines.
● Physical presence in midfield.
Those qualities appear well suited to Andoni Iraola’s demanding style of football.
Liverpool have repeatedly been linked with energetic, dynamic midfielders this summer, and Thuram certainly fits that profile.

The Price Could Be the Sticking Point
The biggest obstacle appears to be Juventus’ valuation.
According to the report, the Serie A club want around £43 million, but none of the interested clubs currently believe that represents fair value.
Liverpool have developed a reputation for remaining disciplined in negotiations.
The club rarely allows itself to be drawn into paying significantly above its own valuation of a player.
That approach has served Liverpool well over recent years and may once again shape how this situation develops.

Plenty of Midfield Options
Thuram is just one of several midfielders linked with Liverpool this summer.
Reports have also connected the Reds with players including:
● Adam Wharton.
● Alex Scott.
● Chema Andrés.
● Ayyoub Bouaddi.
That suggests Liverpool are assessing a range of different profiles before deciding where to invest.
Rather than focusing on one player, the recruitment team appear determined to identify the best overall opportunity.

One to Watch
For now, supporters should treat the report with appropriate caution.
There is no indication that Liverpool have submitted an offer, and negotiations between clubs have not been reported.
However, Juventus’ reported willingness to sell changes the landscape.
If their asking price softens as the window progresses, Liverpool could yet decide the deal represents good value.
Khéphren Thuram has long been admired at Anfield.
This summer may finally determine whether that admiration develops into something more concrete.
Source: Tuttosport.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool’s reported interest in Adam Wharton has taken another intriguing twist.
According to Danny Gallagher, the Reds are exploring the possibility of including Harvey Elliott in a deal with Crystal Palace to help secure the England midfielder’s signature.
While nothing has been agreed, the report claims Liverpool are looking into the logistics of such an arrangement.
However, one important detail remains.
New head coach Andoni Iraola still wants to assess Elliott during pre-season before deciding whether the midfielder should leave.

Elliott’s Future Still Unclear
Harvey Elliott has been linked with several clubs throughout the summer.
Despite his obvious talent, consistent starts have been difficult to come by during his Liverpool career.
The arrival of Iraola, though, has created fresh uncertainty.
The Spaniard reportedly wants to take a closer look at Elliott before any final decision is made.
That could prove crucial.
A strong pre-season may yet convince Liverpool that the 23-year-old should remain at Anfield.

Why Adam Wharton Appeals
It is easy to understand why Liverpool continue to admire Adam Wharton.
The Crystal Palace midfielder has established himself as one of England’s brightest young talents.
Comfortable receiving possession under pressure, capable of dictating play and already proven in the Premier League, Wharton possesses many of the qualities Liverpool value.
He would represent a significant addition to the midfield if the club were able to strike a deal.

A Player-Plus-Cash Deal?
Including Elliott could help bridge the gap between the two clubs’ valuations.
Crystal Palace would receive a technically gifted attacking midfielder with Premier League experience, while Liverpool would strengthen an area many supporters believe remains a long-term priority.
Player-exchange deals are rarely straightforward, but they can sometimes benefit all parties involved if the valuations align.

Iraola’s Decision May Be Key
The report makes clear that Iraola’s assessment of Elliott remains central to the situation.
Rather than immediately approving a sale, the Liverpool head coach reportedly wants to work with the player first.
That reflects Iraola’s reputation for improving individuals rather than making rushed decisions.
If Elliott impresses over the coming weeks, Liverpool’s stance could change completely.

Plenty Still to Happen
Supporters should remember that this remains an exploratory stage.
No agreement has been reached, and much depends on whether:
● Liverpool decide Elliott is available.
● Crystal Palace are interested in the structure of the deal.
● Elliott himself would be open to the move.
Only if all three align is there likely to be genuine progress.

One to Watch
Adam Wharton continues to be one of Liverpool’s most interesting reported midfield targets.
Whether Harvey Elliott ultimately becomes part of any agreement remains uncertain.
What does appear clear is that Liverpool are exploring creative ways to strengthen the squad while giving Iraola time to evaluate the players already at his disposal.
With pre-season now underway, this is another transfer story that could develop quickly—or disappear entirely—depending on what happens over the next few weeks.
Source: @Danny7Gallagher

Jamie (The Kopite View)

The countdown to the new season has officially begun at Kirkby.
While much of the attention has been focused on Liverpool’s first team and the summer transfer window, another important milestone took place on Monday as the club’s academy players returned to the AXA Training Centre to begin pre-season.
With the senior squad due back next week, Liverpool’s next generation have been given an early opportunity to prepare for what could be a hugely significant campaign.

A Fresh Start for the Young Reds
Pre-season is an exciting time for every footballer, but particularly for academy players.
It represents a clean slate.
A chance to impress.
A chance to develop.
And, for some, the opportunity to catch the eye of Liverpool’s first-team coaching staff.
With Andoni Iraola now leading the senior side, several young players will be hoping strong performances over the coming weeks could earn them opportunities later in the summer.

Opportunities Could Be There
Liverpool have repeatedly shown a willingness to promote talented youngsters when they are ready.
Recent years have seen academy graduates and young signings progress into the senior setup, and this pre-season offers another chance for the next wave of talent to stake their claim.
Names such as Rio Ngumoha, Josh Abe, Stefan Bajčetić, Jeremy Jacquet and others have already generated excitement among supporters, while more emerging players will be eager to make their mark.

Learning the Liverpool Way
Returning for pre-season is about much more than fitness.
Players will spend the coming weeks working on:
● Physical conditioning.
● Tactical development.
● Technical improvement.
● Team chemistry.
● Individual goals for the season ahead.
For young footballers, these sessions lay the foundations for the entire campaign.
Every training session matters.
Every impression counts.

First Team Return Next Week
The academy’s early return also means the club will be fully operational before the senior squad arrives next week.
As Liverpool prepare for another demanding season, the pathway between academy and first team remains an important part of the club’s long-term strategy.
Strong performances in academy training can often lead to invitations to train alongside the senior squad later in pre-season.
For many youngsters, that will be the immediate target.

Building for the Future
Liverpool’s academy continues to enjoy a strong reputation for producing talented footballers.
The club remains committed to developing young players capable of progressing into the first team, rather than relying solely on the transfer market.
Every successful academy graduate strengthens not only the squad but also the identity of the football club.
That makes the return to pre-season an important moment each summer.

The Journey Begins Again
For Liverpool’s academy players, the holidays are over.
Hard work begins now.
With the first team returning next week and another exciting season on the horizon, the race to impress is officially underway.
For supporters, it is another reminder that while transfer rumours dominate the headlines, the future of Liverpool Football Club is also being built every day on the training pitches at Kirkby.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

The opening month of a Premier League season is often dismissed.
“It’s a marathon, not a sprint.”
“There are still plenty of games left.”
Those phrases are repeated every August.
For Liverpool this season, though, I don’t think they apply.
If Andoni Iraola is going to succeed at Anfield, Liverpool simply have to start well.

First Impressions Matter
Every new manager needs time.
New ideas.
New tactics.
New relationships.
Supporters understand that.
What they also understand is how quickly confidence can disappear if results don’t follow.
Liverpool have experienced difficult starts before, and recovering from them is never easy.
A positive opening few weeks could create momentum that carries the team into autumn.
A poor start could immediately increase the pressure.

The Fixture List Is Important
Liverpool cannot afford to give their rivals a head start.
Manchester City, Arsenal and others will all be targeting fast starts.
If Liverpool find themselves chasing from the opening month, every dropped point becomes magnified.
That is why pre-season preparation has been so important.
Iraola needs his ideas embedded before the first whistle of the campaign.

A New Style Needs Confidence
Iraola’s football is built around intensity.
Pressing.
Aggression.
Quick transitions.
Those principles require absolute commitment from every player.
The easiest way to build belief in a demanding system is to win football matches.
Nothing convinces players faster than seeing a new approach deliver results.

The Anfield Crowd Can Make the Difference
There is no atmosphere quite like Anfield when the team is playing with confidence.
Supporters feed off energy.
Aggressive pressing.
Fast attacks.
Commitment.
If Liverpool produce those qualities early in the season, the crowd will respond.
And once Anfield gets behind a team, it becomes one of the most difficult stadiums in world football for visiting sides.

New Players Need Time Too
This also applies to any new signings.
Whether Liverpool add one player or several before the transfer window closes, the quicker those players settle, the stronger the team will become.
Winning early helps everyone adapt.
Losing creates doubt.

The Bigger Picture
Nobody will win the Premier League in August.
But teams can certainly make the task much harder for themselves.
Liverpool’s objective should be simple:
Start fast.
Build confidence.
Create momentum.
Allow Iraola’s ideas to grow naturally instead of under constant scrutiny.

An Opportunity to Set the Tone
This feels like the beginning of a completely new chapter for Liverpool.
Supporters are excited.
Players have had a full pre-season under the new manager.
Expectations are rising.
Now comes the most important part.
Turning that optimism into performances.
If Liverpool can hit the ground running, this could become the foundation for a very exciting season.
And if they do, people may look back at those opening weeks as the moment Andoni Iraola truly began building his Liverpool.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Kostas Tsimikas is back at Liverpool as preparations for the new season continue, but questions over his long-term future remain.
According to Paul Gorst of the Liverpool Echo, the Greek international has returned to provide cover for Milos Kerkez during pre-season. However, the report also suggests Liverpool would likely be prepared to listen to permanent offers for the left-back this summer.
That raises an interesting question for supporters.
Will Tsimikas still be a Liverpool player when the 2026/27 season begins?

An Important Squad Player
Since arriving from Olympiacos, Tsimikas has quietly become one of Liverpool’s most dependable squad members.
Although he has spent much of his time playing second fiddle, he has rarely let the team down when called upon.
His crossing ability, energy and attitude have earned him the respect of both supporters and teammates.
Not every player is happy to play a supporting role.
Tsimikas has embraced it.

Kerkez Changes the Picture
The arrival of Milos Kerkez has inevitably altered Liverpool’s plans.
The Hungarian is expected to become the club’s first-choice left-back, meaning opportunities for Tsimikas could become even more limited.
At 30 years old, the Greek defender may understandably want regular football rather than another season on the bench.
That could make a transfer attractive for both player and club.

Reasons to Keep Him
There is, however, a strong argument for Liverpool holding onto Tsimikas for one more season.
Every successful squad needs experienced deputies.
With Liverpool competing across multiple competitions, Iraola will need reliable players capable of stepping in without a significant drop in quality.
Tsimikas has already proven he can do exactly that.
He understands the club.
He knows the expectations.
And he is a popular figure inside the dressing room.
Those qualities are not easily replaced.

Reasons to Sell
Equally, Liverpool may decide this is the right moment to part ways.
If a suitable offer arrives, the club could generate funds while allowing Tsimikas to pursue more regular first-team football elsewhere.
With Kerkez expected to start most matches and younger players continuing to develop, Liverpool may feel the time is right to reshape the position.

My View
Personally, I wouldn’t be in a rush to sell him.
Reliable squad players are often undervalued until they are no longer there.
Liverpool already face enough change across the squad this summer.
Keeping someone as experienced and dependable as Tsimikas for another season would provide valuable stability.
If he is happy to compete for his place and continue supporting the squad, I think Liverpool would benefit from retaining him.
If, however, he makes it clear he wants to play every week, the club may decide it is only fair to let him move on.

A Decision Approaching
For now, Tsimikas is back at the AXA Training Centre and will be part of Liverpool’s pre-season preparations.
Whether that leads to another season at Anfield or a fresh challenge elsewhere remains to be seen.
One thing is certain.
Whatever happens next, Kostas Tsimikas has been an excellent servant to Liverpool—and if this does prove to be his final summer at the club, he will leave with the appreciation of many supporters.
Source: Paul Gorst, Liverpool Echo.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool’s World Cup contingent is now returning home one by one, and while their international campaigns may have ended in disappointment, their early exits could prove beneficial for the club ahead of the new Premier League season.
Following Brazil’s defeat to Norway, Alisson Becker has now joined the growing list of Liverpool players heading back to Merseyside.
He follows:
● Alexander Isak
● Virgil van Dijk
● Ryan Gravenberch
● Cody Gakpo
● Florian Wirtz
all of whom have already seen their World Cup journeys come to an end.

A Fresh Start Under Iraola
While no player wants to leave a World Cup early, the timing could work in Liverpool’s favour.
Those six players will now be given a short period of rest before linking up with Andoni Iraola’s squad later in July.
That means they should still benefit from a substantial pre-season under Liverpool’s new head coach.
For Iraola, that is hugely important.
This summer is not just about fitness—it is about implementing an entirely new playing style.

Valuable Time on the Training Ground
Unlike players who remain deep into the tournament, Liverpool’s returning internationals will have more time to absorb Iraola’s ideas before the Premier League campaign begins.
That extra preparation could prove invaluable.
The Spaniard’s football demands:
● High-intensity pressing.
● Aggressive transitions.
● Excellent physical conditioning.
● Tactical discipline.
The more time players spend working on those principles, the smoother the transition should become.

Alisson Returns Earlier Than Expected
Alisson’s exit following Brazil’s defeat to Norway will naturally disappoint both the goalkeeper and Brazilian supporters.
However, from Liverpool’s perspective, having one of the world’s best goalkeepers back earlier than anticipated is a positive development.
He remains one of Liverpool’s most influential players, and giving him additional time to prepare for the new season could only strengthen the team’s prospects.

Core Players Back Together
The return of Van Dijk, Gravenberch, Gakpo, Wirtz, Isak and Alisson also means Iraola will soon have a significant portion of his expected starting eleven available.
That allows relationships to develop on the training pitch long before competitive football returns.
For a new manager, building understanding between key players is one of the biggest priorities during pre-season.
Liverpool now have the opportunity to do exactly that.

Disappointment Could Become Opportunity
Every one of these players would have hoped to lift the World Cup.
Instead, they now face an earlier return to club football.
Sometimes football’s disappointments create unexpected opportunities.
For Liverpool, having so many important players available for the majority of pre-season may ultimately outweigh the frustration of their international exits.

Eyes Now on the New Season
The World Cup chapter has closed for most of Liverpool’s biggest stars.
Their focus now turns firmly towards the 2026/27 campaign.
Supporters will be eager to see how quickly Iraola’s ideas begin to take shape, and having so many senior players available for a full pre-season can only increase optimism.
After a summer of managerial change and transfer speculation, Liverpool’s next chapter is about to begin.
And with the majority of the squad returning early, Andoni Iraola will have every opportunity to prepare his team for what promises to be a fascinating new era at Anfield.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool’s search for midfield reinforcements appears to be continuing behind the scenes, with another highly-rated youngster reportedly attracting significant interest.
According to Wilson Cox LFC, the Reds remain keen admirers of Chema Andrés, with new head coach Andoni Iraola understood to be a particularly big fan of the 20-year-old midfielder.
While no move is said to be imminent, the Spaniard remains firmly on Liverpool’s radar as the club evaluates its midfield options for both the present and the future.

A Midfielder Iraola Knows Well
One of the most intriguing aspects of the report is Iraola’s reported admiration for Chema Andrés.
Managers naturally like working with players who suit their footballing philosophy, and Chema’s profile appears to align well with the aggressive, energetic style Liverpool are expected to play.
Still only 20, the midfielder has earned praise for his technical quality, composure in possession and tactical intelligence.
Those attributes have reportedly made him one of several names Liverpool continue to monitor closely.

Real Madrid Still Hold the Cards
The situation is complicated by Real Madrid’s buy-back clause.
According to the report, Madrid can re-sign Chema for €13.5 million this summer, with that figure increasing to €18 million in 2027.
That gives the Spanish giants considerable influence over the player’s future and may affect how other clubs approach any potential deal.
If Liverpool were to move, they would need clarity regarding Madrid’s intentions before progressing.

Reported Valuation
Wilson Cox LFC also claims that Stuttgart would likely seek between €25 million and €40 million should they consider selling.
While that is a substantial fee for a developing midfielder, it remains significantly lower than the valuations attached to several of Liverpool’s other reported targets.
Whether Liverpool view that as value for money will depend on their wider transfer priorities.

Liverpool Still Exploring the Market
Chema Andrés is far from the only midfielder under consideration.
The report states Liverpool scouts continue to assess several options, with names including:
● Adam Wharton.
● Alex Scott.
● Ayyoub Bouaddi.
It also claims Liverpool have already made contact regarding a number of potential targets to establish which deals may prove the most realistic.
That suggests the recruitment team are keeping multiple options open rather than committing to one player too early in the window.

Patience Remains the Strategy
Supporters may be growing impatient waiting for new arrivals, but reports such as this reinforce the impression that Liverpool’s recruitment department is carrying out extensive groundwork before making major decisions.
Rather than rushing into expensive transfers, the club appear determined to identify players who fit both Iraola’s tactical vision and Liverpool’s long-term strategy.

One to Watch
Whether Chema Andrés ultimately becomes a Liverpool player remains to be seen.
For now, he joins an increasingly impressive list of midfielders being monitored by the Reds.
With Real Madrid holding a buy-back clause and several other talented players also under consideration, Liverpool’s midfield plans remain fluid.
One thing does appear clear, however.
Liverpool are still working hard behind the scenes—and Chema Andrés is another name supporters may hear much more about as the transfer window progresses.
Source: Wilson Cox LFC.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Curtis Jones’ future continues to be one of the biggest talking points surrounding Liverpool this summer.
According to Paul Gorst, Liverpool’s preference remains to keep the academy graduate and eventually reopen discussions over a new contract. However, there are currently no fresh negotiations scheduled with the midfielder’s representatives.
While there is no immediate suggestion that Jones is close to leaving Anfield, the lack of movement is likely to keep speculation alive.

Liverpool’s Preferred Outcome
The report makes one thing clear.
Liverpool do not want to lose Curtis Jones.
The club still views him as an important member of the squad and would ideally like to agree a new long-term deal.
That stance will reassure many supporters, particularly those who believe the 24-year-old still has his best years ahead of him.
Jones remains one of the few homegrown players to establish himself in Liverpool’s first-team squad, and his versatility continues to make him a valuable option.

Contract Talks Still on Hold
The more intriguing aspect of the report is that no new discussions are currently planned.
That does not necessarily indicate a problem.
Contract negotiations often pause while clubs focus on other priorities during the transfer window.
However, supporters have become increasingly sensitive to situations where key players edge closer to the final years of their deals.
Liverpool have faced criticism in recent seasons for allowing contract situations to drift, and many fans will hope Jones’ future is resolved sooner rather than later.

A Big Opportunity Under Iraola
The arrival of Andoni Iraola could prove significant.
Every managerial change creates fresh opportunities, and Jones will undoubtedly see pre-season as a chance to establish himself in the new head coach’s plans.
Iraola has built a reputation for rewarding players who embrace his demanding, high-intensity style of football.
Jones possesses many of the qualities that could suit that system:
● Energy.
● Technical ability.
● Ball-carrying.
● Tactical flexibility.
● Strong pressing.
A positive pre-season could strengthen Liverpool’s desire to keep him and perhaps accelerate future contract discussions.

Strong Interest Elsewhere
Jones has attracted interest from other Premier League clubs throughout the summer, underlining the regard in which he is held across the league.
Liverpool, though, remain in a strong position.
With time still remaining on his current deal, the club are under no pressure to make a rushed decision.
That gives them the flexibility to assess his role under Iraola before revisiting contract negotiations.

One to Watch
For now, there is no immediate breakthrough.
Liverpool want Jones to stay.
The player is expected to report for pre-season.
New contract talks are likely at some point—but not just yet.
As the summer develops, this remains one of Liverpool’s most interesting contract situations.
And if Jones impresses under Iraola, there is every chance that fresh negotiations will become a priority before the season gathers momentum.
Source: Paul Gorst.

Jamie (The Kopite View)