The Kopite View

Liverpool somehow rescued a point from an incredible opening-day clash at St James’ Park as Dominik Szoboszlai scored a dramatic stoppage-time penalty to earn the Reds a 2-2 draw with Newcastle United.

It looked as though Newcastle were heading for a famous victory after goals from Anthony Elanga and Joe Willock, either side of Cody Gakpo’s equaliser.

But with virtually the last kick of the game, Víctor Muñoz was brought down inside the box by Lewis Hall.

Szoboszlai stepped up.

And the Hungarian showed incredible composure to smash the penalty into the roof of the net.

2-2.

Liverpool had escaped.

A fitting tribute to Kevin Keegan

Before the football began, both sets of supporters came together to honour the legendary Kevin Keegan, who sadly passed away last month at the age of 75.

A huge “King Kev” tifo was displayed inside St James’ Park, while a moving mosaic of shirts was created in the centre circle.

After a minute’s applause, the game got underway.

And Newcastle certainly didn’t hang around.

Elanga gives Newcastle the perfect start

Newcastle made the dream start when Anthony Elanga scored after just five minutes.

William Osula sent the winger through and Elanga showed the clinical finishing that Newcastle supporters will hope becomes a regular feature this season, calmly finding the far corner.

It was exactly the start new manager Matthias Jaissle would have wanted.

Liverpool suddenly had to chase the game.

Liverpool dominate but struggle to create

Despite going behind, Liverpool controlled much of the possession.

The Reds finished the game with around 60% of the ball and 27 attempts, but there was a frustrating lack of creativity in the final third.

Liverpool moved the ball around well but too often struggled to turn possession into genuinely clear-cut opportunities.

Florian Wirtz was unable to influence the game as much as Liverpool supporters would have hoped, while Alexander Isak endured a quiet return to his former club.

It was becoming increasingly frustrating for Iraola’s side.

Gakpo gets Liverpool level

Liverpool finally found their breakthrough after the break.

And it was Cody Gakpo who provided it.

The Dutchman produced an excellent finish from distance, finding the corner beyond Newcastle goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek.

Suddenly, Liverpool were level.

But they weren’t level for long.

Willock restores Newcastle’s lead

Just two minutes later, Newcastle struck again.

Substitute Joe Willock found space and produced a clinical finish into the bottom corner.

St James’ Park erupted.

Newcastle were back in front and suddenly Liverpool were staring at defeat.

It looked like the perfect start to Jaissle’s reign.

The dramatic finale

Liverpool refused to give up.

And in the dying seconds, Muñoz found himself inside the Newcastle penalty area before being brought down by Lewis Hall.

Penalty.

There was no hesitation from Szoboszlai.

The Hungarian stepped up with enormous pressure on his shoulders and hammered the ball into the roof of the net.

2-2.

A dramatic ending to an extraordinary game.

Newcastle players were left devastated at the final whistle, having been seconds away from claiming all three points.

👀 What did we learn about Liverpool?

There were certainly positives.

Liverpool showed character.

They refused to accept defeat.

They had plenty of possession.

They created 27 attempts.

And they fought until the very final whistle.

But the performance also exposed some serious concerns.

Liverpool looked vulnerable whenever Newcastle attacked quickly, particularly when possession was lost.

The full-backs struggled to impose themselves, while Wirtz and Isak couldn’t produce the attacking influence Liverpool desperately needed.

And that will concern Iraola.

Gakpo was Liverpool’s biggest threat

Perhaps the most frustrating aspect for Liverpool supporters was that their most dangerous attacking player was Cody Gakpo.

The Dutchman scored Liverpool’s first goal and looked far more threatening than some of the players expected to lead the attack this season.

That makes the ongoing speculation about his future particularly interesting.

Tottenham continue to be linked with the forward, but Liverpool would surely think very carefully before allowing one of their best performers from this game to leave.

Iraola has plenty to fix

This was only the first game of the season, so there is no need to panic.

But Iraola will have seen plenty that needs improving.

Liverpool cannot rely on dominating possession to win games.

They need more creativity.

They need better protection when they lose the ball.

They need their biggest attacking players to influence games.

And perhaps most importantly, they need more squad depth.

Liverpool are expected to compete across four competitions, and this game showed how quickly things can become difficult when key players aren’t performing at their best.

Player of the Match: Gakpo deserves credit

While Newcastle’s Yoane Wissa was named Player of the Match, Gakpo was Liverpool’s standout performer.

His goal was excellent and he looked like Liverpool’s biggest attacking threat.

Szoboszlai also deserves enormous credit for keeping his nerve when it mattered most.

A point gained or two points lost?

For Newcastle, this will feel like two points dropped.

They were seconds away from beating Liverpool and giving Jaissle the perfect Premier League start.

For Liverpool, it is probably a point gained.

The Reds weren’t at their best.

There were plenty of weaknesses.

But they showed character to keep fighting until the final whistle.

And perhaps that’s the biggest positive Iraola can take from the afternoon.

The season is only one game old

Liverpool haven’t suddenly become a bad team because of this result.

But they have been given an early warning.

Possession isn’t enough.

Creativity needs to improve.

The counter-attack vulnerability has to be fixed.

Wirtz and Isak need to become more influential.

And Liverpool’s squad depth remains a major concern.

There is still plenty of time to address those issues.

But with the transfer window closing soon, Liverpool’s recruitment team now have some very important decisions to make.

Because if Liverpool want to compete for everything this season, this squad needs to be stronger than what we saw at St James’ Park.

For now, though, the Reds have a point.

And thanks to Szoboszlai’s last-gasp penalty, the Iraola era has at least avoided defeat on the opening day.

Team

Alisson, Frimpong, Van Dijk, Jacquet, Kerkez, Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Wirtz, Ngumoha, Isak, Gakpo.

Subs: Mamardashvili, Endo, Mac Allister, Tsimikas, Munoz, Araujo, Nyoni, McConnell, Koumas.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool left St James’ Park with a point after a dramatic 2-2 draw with Newcastle, but Andoni Iraola will know there is plenty for his side to work on.

The Reds showed character to come back from behind, but there were also some familiar concerns that need addressing quickly.

Here are my five biggest talking points from the game.

1. Munoz looks a real threat

One of the biggest positives was Victor Muñoz.

The Spaniard looked dangerous whenever he got forward and showed exactly why his attacking ability could become such an important weapon for Iraola.

His involvement in winning Liverpool’s penalty was particularly impressive, with his excellent play creating the opportunity for the Reds to get back into the game.

Liverpool need players who can provide something different in the final third, and Muñoz certainly looks capable of doing that.

He could become a very important player for Iraola.

2. Liverpool can dominate possession but still lack creativity

This was probably the biggest frustration.

Liverpool had plenty of the ball and were able to control large periods of the match.

But possession doesn’t automatically equal chances.

Too often, Liverpool moved the ball from side to side without producing enough in the final third.

That’s something Iraola has to solve.

The Reds need more players willing to take risks, run beyond defenders and try to unlock compact opposition.

Otherwise, Liverpool can have 60-70% possession and still struggle to create enough.

3. Liverpool need more from Wirtz and Isak

Two of Liverpool’s biggest attacking names need to have a greater influence.

Florian Wirtz showed flashes of his quality, but Liverpool need him to become the player who makes things happen.

He needs to receive the ball in dangerous areas, create chances and influence games more consistently.

And then there’s Alexander Isak.

His return to Newcastle was always going to attract enormous attention, but Liverpool need more from their No.9.

A striker of Isak’s quality needs service, but he also needs to find ways of becoming involved when the service isn’t perfect.

Liverpool spent an enormous amount of money on these attacking players.

They need to start seeing the rewards.

4. Liverpool are far too vulnerable on the counter

This is probably the biggest concern coming out of the game.

Liverpool can dominate possession, but when they lose the ball, they can leave themselves exposed.

Newcastle showed how dangerous that can be.

Iraola wants his team to press aggressively and commit players forward, but there has to be a balance.

You can’t allow opponents to break into huge spaces every time Liverpool lose possession.

The Premier League is full of teams capable of punishing that.

This has to be fixed quickly.

Otherwise, Liverpool will continue to find themselves in matches where they dominate the ball but concede cheap goals.

5. Squad depth is a major concern

And finally, the issue that has been hanging over Liverpool all summer.

Squad depth.

There is plenty of quality in the starting XI, but the drop-off when Liverpool need to make changes is still concerning.

Liverpool are expected to compete on four fronts.

Premier League.

Champions League.

FA Cup.

League Cup.

That’s an enormous workload.

And injuries and suspensions are inevitable.

Iraola needs more options, particularly in the wide areas and potentially in midfield.

If Liverpool are serious about competing for everything, they cannot afford to have a squad that becomes significantly weaker when a couple of key players are unavailable.

A point gained — but plenty to improve

There were positives from the 2-2 draw.

Liverpool showed character.

They came back from behind.

There were encouraging performances, particularly from Muñoz.

But there are also warning signs.

Creativity needs to improve.

Wirtz and Isak need to influence games more.

The counter-attacking vulnerability has to be addressed.

And, perhaps most importantly, Liverpool still need reinforcements before the transfer window closes.

A point at St James’ Park isn’t a disaster.

But if Liverpool want to challenge for major trophies this season, they need to be considerably better than this.

The good news?

It’s only the first game.

Iraola has time to fix it.

But he needs to start quickly. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool trail 1-0 at half-time at St James’ Park, but the Reds have plenty of reasons to believe they can turn this game around.

Newcastle took the lead after just five minutes, with Anthony Elanga finishing to give the hosts the perfect start.

Since then, Liverpool have largely controlled the game.

Elanga strikes after five minutes

Liverpool couldn’t have asked for a worse start.

Just five minutes into the opening game of the Premier League season, Anthony Elanga put Newcastle ahead, sending St James’ Park into a frenzy.

The early goal gave Newcastle exactly what they wanted and allowed them to sit back and look to hit Liverpool on the counter.

But the Reds haven’t panicked.

Liverpool dominate possession

Despite falling behind so early, Liverpool have continued to play their football.

The Reds have enjoyed the majority of possession and have spent long periods camped inside Newcastle’s half.

The problem has been turning that dominance into clear-cut chances.

Liverpool have moved the ball well but haven’t quite found the final pass or finish needed to beat Newcastle’s defence.

Wirtz comes closest

Liverpool’s best opportunity came through Florian Wirtz.

The German produced an excellent effort that looked destined to find the net, only for the Newcastle goalkeeper to make a brilliant save.

It was a huge moment.

Had that gone in, Liverpool would probably feel they deserved to go into the break level.

Isak yet to make his mark

Alexander Isak’s return to St James’ Park hasn’t quite gone to plan so far.

The Swedish striker hasn’t had many opportunities to influence the game, with Newcastle doing a good job of limiting the service into him.

That’s something Liverpool need to change after the break.

If they can get Isak involved more regularly, Newcastle’s defence could have a very different second half to deal with.

Iraola has plenty to work with

The encouraging thing for Liverpool is that they haven’t been overrun.

Quite the opposite.

They’ve dominated possession and dictated much of the tempo since conceding.

Iraola will simply want more threat in the final third.

Liverpool need to be quicker around the Newcastle box and make their possession count.

Still all to play for

The scoreline says Newcastle are ahead.

The performance suggests Liverpool are still very much in this game.

Newcastle 1-0 Liverpool.

Elanga’s fifth-minute goal separates the sides, but Liverpool have another 45 minutes to find a way back.

And if that Wirtz effort was anything to go by, the equaliser could be coming.

Come on Liverpool! 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool’s first Premier League starting XI of the new season has been confirmed — and there are some really interesting decisions from Andoni Iraola.

The Reds face Newcastle United at St James’ Park, and Iraola has gone with:

Alisson; Frimpong, Van Dijk, Jacquet, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Wirtz, Ngumoha, Isak, Gakpo.

Liverpool’s starting XI

GK: Alisson

DEF: Jeremie Frimpong, Virgil van Dijk, Jérémy Jacquet, Milos Kerkez

MID: Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai

ATT: Florian Wirtz, Rio Ngumoha, Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo

What a team this is

There are some major talking points here.

The first is Florian Wirtz.

The German starts in an attacking role and will be expected to find space between Newcastle’s midfield and defence.

Then there’s Alexander Isak.

The Swedish striker makes his return to St James’ Park wearing a Liverpool shirt.

That could be an incredibly emotional occasion for him — but Liverpool will be hoping he can put the emotions aside and concentrate on causing Newcastle problems.

Ngumoha gets the nod

One of the biggest surprises is Rio Ngumoha starting on the left.

The teenager has been given an enormous opportunity by Iraola.

Liverpool have been searching for more pace and quality in the wide areas, and Ngumoha has been trusted to provide exactly that.

At just 17, this is a huge moment for him.

Imagine scoring your first Premier League goal at St James’ Park.

Gakpo starts too

Cody Gakpo also gets the nod, meaning Liverpool have plenty of attacking versatility.

Iraola has already confirmed that he believes Gakpo can play as a No.9.

But with Isak starting centrally, Gakpo could have an important role from the left or potentially move around the front line during the match.

His ability to drift inside could create space for Kerkez to attack from left-back.

Gravenberch and Szoboszlai

The midfield pairing is also fascinating.

Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai are trusted to control the centre of the pitch.

It’s a relatively young and athletic midfield, but Newcastle will provide an enormous physical test.

Liverpool will need them to press aggressively, cover ground and help protect the defence when Newcastle counter.

Jacquet starts alongside Van Dijk

Jérémy Jacquet gets his first Premier League start alongside captain Virgil van Dijk.

That is another major test.

Van Dijk’s experience will be vital, particularly in an intimidating atmosphere like St James’ Park.

Jacquet will have to stay composed because Newcastle will undoubtedly try to put Liverpool’s new defensive partnership under pressure.

A strong bench

Liverpool also have plenty of options available from the bench:

Mamardashvili, Endo, Mac Allister, Tsimikas, Munoz, Araujo, Nyoni, McConnell and Koumas.

And I particularly like the options in midfield.

If Liverpool need more control, Alexis Mac Allister can come on.

If Iraola wants more energy, Trey Nyoni is available.

And Wataru Endo provides another defensive option.

Isak’s big return

But let’s be honest — everyone’s eyes will be on one man.

Alexander Isak.

His first Premier League appearance for Liverpool at his former home.

The Newcastle supporters will undoubtedly have plenty to say.

Liverpool supporters will be hoping he responds in the best possible way.

With a goal.

The Iraola era starts now

This is the team Iraola believes can begin Liverpool’s new Premier League campaign with three points.

It’s young.

It’s exciting.

It’s aggressive.

And there is plenty of attacking quality.

Alisson

Frimpong – Van Dijk – Jacquet – Kerkez

Gravenberch – Szoboszlai

Wirtz – Ngumoha – Isak – Gakpo

Now it’s time to see what this Liverpool side can do when the points actually matter.

Come on Liverpool! 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

The wait is finally over.

Liverpool begin the 2026/27 Premier League season today with a huge trip to St James’ Park to face Newcastle United.

And this isn’t just the first league game of a new campaign.

It is the beginning of the Andoni Iraola era.

It is Alexander Isak’s return to Newcastle.

It is the first competitive test of Liverpool’s new-look squad.

And, before kick-off, both sets of supporters will come together to honour a legend of both clubs, Kevin Keegan.

There is a lot to look forward to.

A new Liverpool under Iraola

There is genuine excitement surrounding Liverpool this season.

Iraola has spent pre-season implementing his ideas and getting his players accustomed to a different style of football.

The encouraging thing is that Liverpool have shown signs of adapting quickly.

But today is completely different.

Pre-season is about fitness, experimentation and preparation.

The Premier League is about winning.

And St James’ Park is one of the toughest places to begin a season.

Iraola knows Liverpool still have areas that need improving, particularly in the wide positions, but he believes his team are already capable of competing.

Now we get to see it for real.

Isak returns to St James’ Park

There is no escaping the biggest individual storyline.

Alexander Isak returns to Newcastle.

The Swedish striker left Newcastle for Liverpool last summer and today’s reception will undoubtedly be fascinating.

He knows this stadium.

He knows these supporters.

And Newcastle know exactly what he is capable of.

Isak has had a difficult first season at Liverpool, but there is a feeling that this could be the campaign when everything finally clicks.

What better way to announce himself under Iraola than by scoring at his former home?

It would certainly make for an unforgettable afternoon.

Gakpo could have an important role

Iraola has also confirmed that Cody Gakpo can play as a No.9.

Liverpool’s lack of natural wide options means Gakpo has spent much of pre-season operating from the left, but the manager has already discussed using him centrally.

That gives Liverpool another tactical option.

If Newcastle manage to limit Isak’s influence, Iraola can potentially alter the shape and use Gakpo differently.

And with Hugo Ekitike unavailable, that versatility could prove extremely valuable.

A new-look defence faces an immediate test

Liverpool’s defence has undergone significant change.

Virgil van Dijk remains the leader, but there are new faces around him following the departures and injuries that have affected the defensive group.

Ronald Araújo and Jérémy Jacquet are competing for a place alongside the captain, while Joe Gomez is unavailable.

Van Dijk has already admitted that the new defensive partnerships will need time to develop.

Unfortunately for Liverpool, they don’t have time to wait today.

Newcastle will test them immediately.

The atmosphere will be ferocious.

The intensity will be high.

And Liverpool’s defensive organisation will need to be excellent.

Newcastle will fancy their chances

Liverpool shouldn’t underestimate Newcastle.

They are also beginning a new era under Matthias Jaissle, and St James’ Park will be absolutely bouncing.

Newcastle’s recent pre-season results haven’t been particularly convincing, but that can become irrelevant once the Premier League begins.

This is their home.

It is the opening day.

And they will be desperate to make a statement.

Liverpool’s record against Newcastle is excellent, but that means very little once the whistle goes. The Reds have been unbeaten in their last 19 Premier League meetings with Newcastle.

Liverpool need to start quickly

One thing I want to see from Liverpool today is intensity from the first minute.

This is Iraola’s football.

Pressing as a unit.

Moving the ball quickly.

Attacking space.

Being aggressive without the ball.

If Liverpool can impose that style on Newcastle, they have enough quality to cause serious problems.

But if they allow Newcastle to dictate the tempo, St James’ Park could become a very uncomfortable place to play.

And then there’s Kevin Keegan

Before the football takes centre stage, there will be a very special moment.

Both sets of supporters will pay tribute to Kevin Keegan, a legend of Liverpool and Newcastle.

That’s what makes this opening day even more memorable.

Two clubs with a fierce rivalry coming together to celebrate someone who means so much to both.

A great player.

A great manager.

A great man.

It is a wonderful way to begin the new Premier League season.

My prediction

I expect this to be a difficult game for Liverpool.

Newcastle will have the crowd behind them and will be desperate to start the new campaign positively.

But I believe Liverpool have more attacking quality and, if Iraola’s pressing game works as intended, they should have enough to come away with three points.

Newcastle 1-2 Liverpool.

I can see Isak having a major influence.

And if he scores at St James’ Park, what a way that would be to begin his second season at Liverpool.

The season starts here

Whatever happens today, this is going to be fascinating.

A new manager.

A new tactical identity.

A new-look squad.

A new Premier League campaign.

And one enormous challenge waiting at St James’ Park.

Liverpool supporters have spent months wondering what Iraola’s team will actually look like when the points matter.

Today, we finally find out.

Come on Liverpool.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

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There are some football matches that feel like more than just a game.

Today’s meeting between Liverpool and Newcastle United is one of them.

As both sets of supporters prepare for the first game of the Premier League season, there will be a special moment before kick-off as fans from both clubs come together to pay tribute to a true footballing legend.

Kevin Keegan.

A great player.

A great manager.

And, above all, a great man.

A legend of both clubs

Keegan holds a special place in the hearts of supporters at both Liverpool and Newcastle.

At Liverpool, he became one of the most important players of the club’s great teams of the 1970s.

He helped Liverpool win major trophies and became a huge favourite with the supporters before eventually moving on to Hamburg.

But his connection with Newcastle became something entirely different.

Keegan returned to St James’ Park as a manager and helped transform the club, bringing excitement, attacking football and belief back to Newcastle.

He became a symbol of what Newcastle could be.

And his relationship with the supporters has endured for decades.

Two sets of fans, one tribute

That’s what makes today’s occasion so special.

Liverpool and Newcastle supporters may be passionate rivals for 90 minutes, but football can also bring people together.

Today isn’t really about Liverpool versus Newcastle.

It’s about celebrating someone who has left an enormous mark on both football clubs.

There will be supporters inside St James’ Park who remember Keegan playing for Liverpool.

There will be others who remember him standing on the touchline as Newcastle manager.

And there will be younger supporters who perhaps never saw him play but understand what he means to their clubs.

Great player, great manager

Keegan’s achievements speak for themselves.

As a player, he was part of a Liverpool side that dominated English and European football.

As a manager, he enjoyed success with Newcastle and elsewhere.

But statistics and trophies don’t fully explain why he remains so loved.

There was something about Keegan.

His personality.

His passion.

His enthusiasm.

His connection with supporters.

He made people believe.

And that’s something that never really disappears.

What a way to start a new season

For Liverpool supporters, there’s also the excitement of seeing Andoni Iraola’s team begin a new Premier League campaign.

For Newcastle fans, it’s the same.

But before the football takes centre stage, there will be a chance for everyone inside St James’ Park to pause and remember someone who means so much to both clubs.

That’s football at its best.

Rivalry doesn’t have to mean hatred.

Sometimes you can stand opposite someone and still share the same respect.

Today belongs to Kevin Keegan

Liverpool and Newcastle will obviously want the three points.

There will be tackles.

There will be arguments.

There will be celebrations.

There will be heartbreak.

That’s football.

But before all of that, both sets of supporters can stand together and say thank you to a man who gave so much to both clubs.

Kevin Keegan.

A Liverpool legend.

A Newcastle legend.

A football legend.

Great player. Great manager. Great man.

What a special way to begin the new Premier League season. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool have reportedly emerged as a potential late-window option for Ismaïla Sarr, with the Crystal Palace winger attracting interest from several clubs.

According to Nevzat Dindar, Liverpool are interested in a late move for Sarr, who is also a primary transfer target for Galatasaray.

The Senegal international was notably left out of Crystal Palace’s squad for their defeat to Everton on Saturday, adding further fuel to speculation surrounding his future.

👀 An interesting name for Liverpool

Sarr isn’t a completely new name to Premier League supporters.

The 28-year-old has previously played for Watford and has now established himself at Crystal Palace, bringing plenty of Premier League experience with him.

And from Liverpool’s perspective, there are obvious reasons why he could be attractive.

Pace.

Power.

Directness.

Those are qualities Liverpool have been looking to add to their attacking options.

Iraola wants more wingers

The timing of this rumour is particularly interesting.

Andoni Iraola recently admitted that Liverpool don’t have enough players who are specialists in the wide positions.

Liverpool have been pursuing Yankuba Minteh, while Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye have also been linked with moves to Anfield.

But if Liverpool can’t get one of their preferred targets over the line, Sarr could potentially represent a more experienced alternative.

Unlike some of the younger names Liverpool have been targeting, Sarr already knows the Premier League.

He wouldn’t need months to adapt to the pace and physicality of English football.

Sarr could give Liverpool something different

Sarr’s biggest weapon has always been his pace.

He’s capable of attacking space quickly and stretching defensive lines.

That could be particularly useful alongside Alexander Isak.

Liverpool need players who can get around the outside, beat defenders and deliver dangerous balls into the box.

Sarr can provide that.

He can also operate on either flank and has experience playing centrally, giving Iraola another versatile attacking option.

But would this be Liverpool’s preferred move?

That’s the big question.

Liverpool have clearly been looking at younger players with enormous potential.

Minteh is 22.

Barcola is 23.

Mbaye is only 18.

Sarr is 28.

So this would represent a slightly different recruitment strategy.

Rather than signing another long-term project, Liverpool would be bringing in someone who can contribute immediately.

And perhaps that’s exactly what Iraola needs.

Why was Sarr left out?

The fact Sarr was omitted from Palace’s squad against Everton is certainly interesting.

It doesn’t automatically mean a transfer is imminent.

There could be other reasons.

But when a player is being heavily linked with a move and then isn’t included in the matchday squad, supporters are naturally going to wonder whether something is happening behind the scenes.

If Liverpool really are interested, they may now be monitoring the situation very closely.

A late-window surprise?

Liverpool supporters have become accustomed to dramatic transfer developments in the final days of a window.

And Sarr would certainly qualify as an unexpected name.

For weeks, the focus has been on players such as Minteh and Barcola.

Now we’re hearing Liverpool could potentially turn to a proven Premier League winger instead.

It could be a sensible move if Liverpool simply need another senior attacking option.

Keep an eye on this one

At this stage, Sarr shouldn’t be treated as a player who is definitely joining Liverpool.

The report says Liverpool are interested, while Galatasaray are also pursuing him.

But his omission from the Palace squad certainly makes the situation worth watching.

Liverpool need another winger.

Sarr has Premier League experience.

He has pace.

He can play multiple attacking positions.

And he could potentially make an immediate contribution.

Could Ismaïla Sarr be Liverpool’s surprise late-window signing?

With the transfer window closing, don’t rule anything out. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool’s pursuit of Yankuba Minteh appears to have taken another important step.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Minteh has already agreed personal terms with Liverpool and wants to move to Anfield.

The only major obstacle now is reaching an agreement with Brighton over the transfer fee.

And that could be the difficult part.

Minteh wants Liverpool

The most encouraging part of this update is the player’s stance.

Minteh reportedly wants the move.

Personal terms have already been agreed, meaning Liverpool have seemingly convinced the 22-year-old that Anfield is where he wants to continue his career.

That puts the Reds in a strong position from the player’s side.

But unfortunately, that’s only half the battle.

Liverpool still have to convince Brighton.

Brighton are holding firm

Brighton have already rejected Liverpool’s previous offers for Minteh, with the Seagulls understood to be demanding a substantial fee.

Liverpool clearly believe the winger is worth pursuing.

They wouldn’t have continued negotiations otherwise.

But the Reds also don’t want to simply pay whatever Brighton ask.

And that has been one of the recurring themes of Liverpool’s transfer window.

The player wants the move.

Liverpool want the player.

Now the clubs have to agree on the money.

Why Liverpool want Minteh

It’s easy to understand why Iraola would want him.

Minteh is exactly the sort of explosive winger Liverpool need.

He’s quick.

He’s direct.

He attacks defenders.

And he’s capable of carrying the ball at speed.

That’s particularly important for Liverpool because Alexander Isak needs service.

Having another winger capable of beating his man and delivering the ball into dangerous areas could make a huge difference.

It would also give Liverpool another player capable of stretching defences.

Iraola has already made his position clear

Andoni Iraola admitted in his latest press conference that Liverpool don’t have enough players who are specialists in the wide positions.

That makes this pursuit even more significant.

Liverpool aren’t simply trying to sign Minteh because he’s an exciting player.

They’re trying to address a genuine weakness in the squad.

And Minteh fits the profile.

But Liverpool need to get the fee right

This is where Richard Hughes and Liverpool’s recruitment team have to be smart.

Brighton know Minteh wants Liverpool.

They know Liverpool want him.

That gives them leverage.

But Liverpool also reportedly have alternatives they can turn to if the numbers become unrealistic.

And that’s important.

The Reds shouldn’t allow themselves to be held to ransom.

If Brighton want a huge fee, Liverpool need to decide whether Minteh is worth it.

The next step

With personal terms reportedly already agreed, the next stage is entirely about the clubs.

Liverpool and Brighton need to find common ground.

Perhaps Liverpool increase their offer.

Perhaps Brighton lower their demands.

Or perhaps the two clubs structure a deal with a significant guaranteed fee plus achievable add-ons.

There are several ways to get it done.

The signs are positive

For Liverpool supporters, though, this is another encouraging update.

Minteh wants Liverpool.

Personal terms are agreed.

Liverpool are still negotiating.

Now the Reds simply have to get Brighton over the line.

And if they can do that, Liverpool could finally have the explosive wide player Iraola has been asking for.

The player has chosen Anfield.

Now Liverpool have to agree the price. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Andoni Iraola has given Liverpool supporters plenty to think about ahead of Sunday’s trip to Newcastle, with the manager discussing Cody Gakpo, Alexander Isak, the transfer window and how quickly his squad is adapting to his methods.

And perhaps the biggest takeaway from his latest press conference is that Iraola knows Liverpool still need more players.

The manager wants to build a team capable of competing for everything, but he also recognises that there are areas of the squad where Liverpool simply don’t have enough options.

Iraola confirms Gakpo can play as a No.9

One of the most interesting comments from Iraola concerned Cody Gakpo.

The Liverpool boss confirmed that he sees the Dutchman as someone capable of playing through the middle.

“Yes, I think Cody can play as a number nine.”

Iraola explained that Liverpool haven’t used Gakpo there much during pre-season because they haven’t had enough natural wingers.

Instead, they have prioritised getting Gakpo comfortable in his preferred position on the left.

But Iraola has already been discussing the possibility of using him as a striker.

And that could become particularly important throughout the season.

Gakpo has previously played as a No.9 and offers Liverpool a completely different option from Alexander Isak.

His ability to link play, attack the box and operate across the frontline gives Iraola plenty of tactical flexibility.

Iraola admits Liverpool need more wingers

This was perhaps the most significant part of the press conference from a transfer perspective.

When asked what Liverpool need, Iraola was pretty clear.

“Especially now on the wing because we don’t have enough players specific to play in those positions.”

That is a very revealing admission.

Liverpool have been heavily linked with attacking reinforcements throughout the summer, and Iraola’s comments suggest that adding another winger is clearly a priority.

The manager also stressed that Liverpool need to remain open-minded about other positions.

If an opportunity arises that can genuinely improve the squad, Iraola wants the club to consider it.

Liverpool’s transfer window isn’t over

This should reassure supporters who have been worried about Liverpool’s squad depth.

Iraola isn’t sitting there believing his squad is perfect.

He wants more.

The manager wants specific players for the wings, while remaining open to strengthening elsewhere.

That is particularly important with Liverpool competing across multiple competitions.

The Premier League.

Champions League.

FA Cup.

League Cup.

Liverpool need enough quality to handle all of them.

Isak returns to Newcastle

Sunday’s game will obviously be a particularly interesting one for Alexander Isak.

The Swedish striker will return to St James’ Park to face his former club.

Iraola understands that it will be an emotional occasion.

“It’s always special when you play against your ex-team in your stadium.”

But the Liverpool manager expects Isak to be fully focused.

And given this is the opening game of the Premier League season, there should be plenty of motivation on both sides.

Imagine Isak scoring at St James’ Park on his Liverpool debut.

That would be some way to begin his new chapter.

Liverpool are still learning Iraola’s football

Another important point was Iraola’s assessment of how quickly the squad is adapting to his methods.

The manager believes Liverpool are already capable of competing and winning games.

But he isn’t pretending everything is perfect.

“We still can be a good team. That we need to improve, definitely, we will improve.”

That’s probably the most realistic approach.

Liverpool have undergone a significant change in playing style.

The players are learning new movements, new pressing triggers and different responsibilities.

That won’t happen overnight.

But Iraola wants the improvement to happen quickly.

The manager’s ambition is clear

Perhaps the most exciting quote of the entire press conference was Iraola’s answer when asked about his expectations for the season.

“I want to be a really good team.”

And then:

“I want to use the good players that I have in the best way, so they give us the chance to fight for everything.”

That’s the mentality Liverpool supporters want to hear.

He’s not setting a target of simply finishing in the top four.

He’s not talking about rebuilding for two or three years.

He wants Liverpool to compete for everything.

But he knows more is needed

The message from Iraola is actually quite simple.

Liverpool have a very good squad.

Liverpool can compete.

But Liverpool can still improve.

And the biggest immediate concern appears to be the wide positions.

That’s why the ongoing pursuit of players such as Bradley Barcola, Yankuba Minteh and other attacking targets remains so important.

Iraola has effectively confirmed what many supporters have been saying.

Liverpool need more options.

And with the transfer window still open, the manager wants the club to remain active.

Now let’s see what happens at Newcastle

Sunday’s trip to Newcastle will be the first real test of Iraola’s Liverpool.

It will also be Isak’s emotional return to St James’ Park.

Gakpo could potentially be used in multiple attacking roles.

And Liverpool’s squad depth will immediately be tested.

Iraola believes his team can compete.

He believes they can improve.

And most importantly, he wants Liverpool to fight for everything.

Now it’s time to see whether the club can give him the squad capable of doing exactly that. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

A fascinating transfer rumour has emerged from Colombia, and Liverpool supporters will naturally be wondering whether the Reds could be involved.

Reports from Colombia claim that Matías Orozco is set to leave Deportivo Cali for an important Premier League club in the coming hours, with a reported €6m release clause.

And the obvious question is:

Could that club be Liverpool?

At this stage, there is nothing concrete linking Orozco with Liverpool, so I wouldn’t get carried away.

But this is certainly a player worth keeping an eye on.

Who is Matías Orozco?

Orozco is an 18-year-old Colombian midfielder who plays primarily as a defensive midfielder.

Deportivo Cali’s own profile lists him as a defensive midfielder, while Transfermarkt also records him as capable of playing in central and more advanced midfield positions.

He’s a product of Deportivo Cali’s academy and has already made his senior debut.

In fact, Orozco spoke about making his professional debut in October 2025, describing it as a childhood dream.

And there’s already Premier League interest

Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Orozco has been linked with England.

Reports from Colombia in recent weeks have claimed that Brentford have made an approach for the youngster, while clubs from Spain and the Netherlands have also reportedly requested information.

So there is already evidence that European clubs are monitoring him.

And if the latest report about a Premier League move is accurate, it appears his future could be decided very soon.

Could Liverpool be the mystery club?

This is where speculation begins.

Liverpool have shown plenty of willingness to invest in young talent, particularly players who could potentially develop into first-team stars.

And Orozco would certainly fit that profile.

He’s only 18, already has senior football experience and plays in a position where Liverpool could potentially benefit from adding another young option for the future.

However, we shouldn’t turn a rumour into a Liverpool transfer before there is evidence connecting the two.

At the moment, the strongest Premier League link I can find is with Brentford rather than Liverpool.

A €6m gamble?

If the reported €6m release clause is accurate, it would be a relatively interesting investment for a Premier League club.

Liverpool wouldn’t necessarily be signing Orozco as an immediate first-team player.

Instead, this could be about identifying a talented youngster early and giving him time to develop.

That’s something Liverpool have increasingly looked to do.

And sometimes these are the transfers that can eventually become extremely valuable.

One to watch

Orozco’s current contract with Deportivo Cali runs until June 2029, following a renewal earlier this year.

So Deportivo Cali clearly see him as an important part of their future.

But if another club really can trigger a €6m clause, they may have little choice but to accept his departure.

So, could it be Liverpool?

Possibly — but there is currently no reliable evidence that it is.

That’s the important distinction.

The report says an important Premier League club is preparing to take Orozco.

We know Brentford have previously shown interest.

Liverpool are constantly monitoring young talent.

But until Liverpool’s name is attached to the deal by a credible source, I’d treat this as an interesting rumour rather than a Liverpool transfer in the making.

Still, at just 18 years old, a Colombian midfielder nicknamed a jewel leaving Deportivo Cali for the Premier League is certainly something Liverpool supporters should keep an eye on.

Could the mystery club be Liverpool?

Right now, we simply don’t know.

But if the Reds are involved, perhaps we’re about to discover another exciting young talent before everyone else does. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

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