The Kopite View

Virgil van Dijk has already achieved almost everything there is to achieve in a Liverpool shirt.
Premier League champion.
Champions League winner.
Club captain.
One of the greatest centre-backs in Liverpool’s history.
Yet there is a strong argument that the 2026/27 season could become the most important of his entire Anfield career.
Not because of what he wins.
But because of what he leaves behind.

More Than Liverpool’s Best Defender
For years, Van Dijk has been Liverpool’s defensive rock.
His composure, leadership and consistency transformed the club after his arrival from Southampton.
He didn’t simply improve Liverpool’s defence—he changed the mentality of the entire team.
Now, his role is evolving once again.
He is no longer just Liverpool’s best defender.
He is becoming the bridge between one great generation and the next.

A New Generation Is Emerging
Liverpool’s squad is changing.
Young players are beginning to establish themselves across the squad, and several exciting talents are pushing for first-team opportunities.
In defence, Jeremy Jacquet has arrived with huge expectations.
Conor Bradley continues to develop.
Elsewhere, academy prospects are hoping to follow the path taken by players such as Rio Ngumoha and Stefan Bajčetić.
For all of them, there could be no better player to learn from than Van Dijk.

Leadership Cannot Be Bought
Liverpool can spend millions on transfers.
They can recruit exciting young talent from across Europe.
What they cannot simply buy is leadership.
Leadership is built over years.
It is earned through performances, professionalism and consistency.
That is exactly what Van Dijk brings every single day.
His influence extends far beyond ninety minutes on a Saturday afternoon.
He sets standards.
He demands excellence.
And younger players notice.

Iraola Will Need Him
Every new manager needs leaders inside the dressing room.
Andoni Iraola may bring fresh ideas, new tactics and a different style of football, but implementing those ideas becomes much easier when senior players reinforce them.
Van Dijk is likely to become one of Iraola’s most important allies.
His experience will be invaluable as Liverpool adapt to a new system and a new era.

Helping Shape Liverpool’s Future
Perhaps Van Dijk’s greatest contribution over the next few years will not be lifting another trophy.
It may be helping develop the defenders who eventually replace him.
Jeremy Jacquet.
Potential future signings.
Academy graduates.
All stand to benefit from working alongside one of the finest defenders of his generation.
If Van Dijk can pass on even a fraction of his knowledge and mentality, Liverpool’s future will be considerably stronger.

Still One of the Best
It is also important to remember that this is not a farewell season.
Van Dijk remains one of the world’s elite centre-backs.
His performances continue to justify his place among football’s very best.
Liverpool are not asking him to mentor because he is declining.
They are asking him to lead because he is still setting the standard.

A Lasting Legacy
Football supporters often judge players by medals and memorable moments.
Van Dijk already has both.
Now he has an opportunity to add something else to his legacy.
To help build Liverpool’s next great team.
To guide the next generation.
And to leave Anfield knowing he didn’t just transform one successful side—he helped lay the foundations for another.
That is why this season could become the most important of Virgil van Dijk’s remarkable Liverpool career.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool could have an unexpected opportunity to strengthen their defence this summer.
According to Mark Brus, the Reds are keeping a close eye on developments surrounding Jules Koundé, with Barcelona reportedly open to selling the French international in what would be one of the transfer window’s biggest surprises.
The report claims Koundé has been deemed expendable by the Catalan club and could be available for around £55 million.
If accurate, Liverpool may have a rare chance to sign one of Europe’s most accomplished defenders.

A Proven Winner
Unlike many of the younger defenders Liverpool have been linked with this summer, Koundé would arrive with extensive experience at the highest level.
The French international has already proven himself in both La Liga and European competition, establishing a reputation as one of the game’s most reliable defenders.
Comfortable at both centre-back and right-back, his versatility has been one of his greatest strengths throughout his career.
That flexibility would undoubtedly appeal to Andoni Iraola.

A Perfect Fit for Liverpool?
Koundé’s profile appears well suited to Liverpool’s current needs.
He is:
● Comfortable in possession.
● Quick across the ground.
● Aggressive in one-on-one defending.
● Positionally intelligent.
● Capable of playing in multiple defensive roles.
Those qualities would fit naturally into Iraola’s high-intensity system, where defenders are expected to defend large spaces while also contributing to the build-up.

£55 Million Represents Value?
In today’s transfer market, a fee of £55 million for a player of Koundé’s experience could represent excellent value.
Elite defenders with proven pedigree rarely become available at that price, particularly those still firmly in their prime.
If Barcelona are genuinely willing to sell, Liverpool may view this as an opportunity that deserves serious consideration.

Experience Alongside Youth
Liverpool have been linked with several younger centre-backs throughout the summer, including Dean Huijsen, Illia Zabarnyi and Joel Ordóñez.
Koundé would offer something different.
Rather than signing another developing talent, Liverpool would be acquiring a player capable of making an immediate impact while also bringing valuable experience to a defence entering a period of transition.
That balance between youth and experience could prove important over a long season.

One to Watch
Supporters should treat the latest report with appropriate caution.
There has been no indication that Liverpool have made an offer, and Barcelona’s reported willingness to sell remains unconfirmed.
However, if Koundé really has been placed on the market, Liverpool are unlikely to ignore the situation.
Players of his quality do not become available very often.
With Liverpool continuing to assess defensive options before the transfer window closes, this is certainly one story worth watching closely.
Source: Mark Brus.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes remains fully committed to delivering a successful summer transfer window despite reports that this could be his final one at Anfield.
According to David Ornstein, Hughes is currently focused entirely on Liverpool’s recruitment plans and on supporting new head coach Andoni Iraola as the club prepares for the 2026/27 season.
The report also suggests that Hughes’ contractual situation means this transfer window is expected to be his last before a planned period of transition, allowing a successor time to settle into one of the most important roles at the football club.

Full Focus on Liverpool’s Summer Business
With Liverpool undergoing significant change both on and off the pitch, Hughes has one of the biggest jobs in European football this summer.
The Reds continue to be linked with players across multiple positions, while Andoni Iraola begins shaping the squad in his own image.
According to Ornstein, Hughes remains fully focused on ensuring Liverpool complete the business required before the transfer window closes.
That commitment should reassure supporters who may have questioned whether speculation surrounding his future could become a distraction.

Supporting Iraola’s New Era
One of Hughes’ primary responsibilities this summer is helping Iraola build a squad capable of competing for the Premier League and Champions League.
The Spaniard has inherited a talented group of players, but Liverpool are expected to continue strengthening in several areas before the season begins.
Working closely together during a manager’s first transfer window is often crucial, and Hughes is understood to be playing a key role in supporting Iraola throughout that process.

A Planned Transition
Rather than an abrupt departure, the report describes a structured transition.
If Hughes does leave following this window, Liverpool intend to create a period where his successor can gradually settle into the position.
That reflects the club’s long-term approach to recruitment and planning.
Liverpool have built a reputation for stability behind the scenes, and ensuring continuity within the sporting department appears to remain a priority.

A Legacy to Complete
Should this prove to be Hughes’ final transfer window at Anfield, it may also become the defining one of his tenure.
Replacing key players, strengthening the squad and helping launch the Iraola era successfully would represent a significant achievement.
Supporters will ultimately judge the summer by the quality of the business completed, but Hughes has an opportunity to leave Liverpool in a strong position before any transition takes place.

Plenty Still to Come
Liverpool continue to be linked with several high-profile names, while negotiations remain ongoing in different areas of the squad.
If Ornstein’s report is accurate, Hughes’ attention remains firmly on completing those deals rather than looking beyond his current role.
With weeks still remaining in the transfer window, Liverpool supporters will hope that focus results in more arrivals before the new season gets underway.
If this is indeed Richard Hughes’ final transfer window at Anfield, he has the chance to leave behind a squad capable of competing for major honours for years to come.
Source: David Ornstein.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool’s midfield planning continues to attract attention, with a new name emerging from Japan.
According to Nikkan Sports, the Reds are among the clubs interested in Kaishu Sano, with the report suggesting that a significant offer for the Japanese midfielder could arrive in the near future.
While no official approach has been confirmed, the report adds another intriguing name to Liverpool’s growing list of potential midfield targets.

Another Young Talent on Liverpool’s Radar
At 24 years old, Sano has established himself as one of Japan’s most promising midfielders.
Known for his energy, defensive awareness and ability to cover large areas of the pitch, he has earned praise for his mature performances at both club and international level.
Those qualities are likely to appeal to Liverpool’s recruitment team, particularly under Andoni Iraola, whose teams rely heavily on hard-working midfielders capable of pressing aggressively and recovering possession quickly.

A Different Midfield Profile
Liverpool already possess plenty of technical quality in midfield through players such as Florian Wirtz, Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai.
Sano would potentially offer something slightly different.
His game is built around discipline, work rate and breaking up opposition attacks, making him a player who could provide valuable balance in the middle of the park.
Modern football increasingly demands midfielders who can defend as effectively as they attack, and Sano appears to fit that profile.

Liverpool’s Recruitment Strategy
The link also fits Liverpool’s recent recruitment philosophy.
The club have increasingly focused on identifying talented players before they become household names across Europe.
Rather than competing only for established superstars, Liverpool have often targeted footballers with high ceilings who can continue developing within the club’s system.
If the report is accurate, Sano may represent another example of that long-term approach.

Competition Expected
Nikkan Sports suggest that interest in the midfielder is growing and that a major offer could arrive soon.
Whether Liverpool are the club preparing that bid remains unclear, but if several sides are monitoring his progress, the Reds may need to act quickly should they decide he is the right fit.
The summer transfer window has already demonstrated how quickly situations can change once multiple clubs become involved.

One to Watch
For now, supporters should treat the report with appropriate caution.
There is no confirmation that Liverpool have submitted an offer, and transfer interest does not always lead to formal negotiations.
However, the emergence of Kaishu Sano’s name is another indication that Liverpool continue to explore a wide range of midfield options as they shape the squad for the future.
If a “big offer” is indeed on the horizon, it will be interesting to see whether Liverpool are the club behind it.
Source: Nikkan Sports.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

ot be finished yet.
Despite already strengthening parts of the squad this summer, the Reds are still expected to recruit another centre-back, with several high-profile names reportedly remaining under consideration.
According to the latest reports, Dean Huijsen, Illia Zabarnyi and Joel Ordóñez are all being monitored as Liverpool continue assessing options before the transfer window closes.

Recruitment Still Active
Liverpool’s recruitment team are understood to remain active in the market, recognising that central defence is an area where further reinforcement could prove important.
The club have been linked with a number of defenders throughout the summer, but the latest reports suggest the shortlist has narrowed to several players who fit the profile Andoni Iraola is looking for.
Each offers something slightly different.
● Dean Huijsen – technically gifted, composed in possession and one of Europe’s brightest young defenders.
● Illia Zabarnyi – Premier League experience, physical presence and already familiar with Iraola’s methods from Bournemouth.
● Joel Ordóñez – highly rated Ecuadorian defender with impressive athleticism and significant long-term potential.

Liverpool Open to Creative Deals
One particularly interesting aspect of the report is Liverpool’s willingness to explore creative deal structures.
Rather than insisting on a traditional permanent transfer, the club are reportedly open to arrangements such as an initial loan with an option to buy should the right opportunity arise for players like Huijsen or Zabarnyi.
That flexibility could prove important in a market where transfer fees continue to rise.
It would also allow Liverpool to strengthen immediately while managing financial commitments over a longer period.

Waiting for the Right Opportunity
The report also suggests Liverpool are prepared to remain patient.
Rather than rushing into a deal, the club are expected to stay alert for opportunities that may develop later in the window.
That includes the possibility of triggering a release clause if a suitable player unexpectedly becomes available.
Liverpool have often shown discipline in the transfer market, preferring to wait for the right deal instead of overpaying.
This summer appears to be no different.

Building for the Present and the Future
Whoever arrives will not simply be viewed as a short-term solution.
Liverpool are looking for a defender capable of contributing immediately while also becoming part of the club’s long-term plans.
With Virgil van Dijk entering the latter stages of his career, identifying the next generation of defensive leaders remains a priority.
That makes the current recruitment process one of the most significant pieces of business still to be completed this summer.

One to Watch
Liverpool supporters may still have to wait a little longer for movement.
However, the latest reports indicate the club’s work behind the scenes is continuing.
Whether the eventual signing is Huijsen, Zabarnyi, Ordóñez or another player entirely, one thing appears increasingly clear:
Liverpool are not finished in the transfer market, and strengthening at centre-back remains firmly on the agenda.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool may be on the verge of pulling off one of the biggest transfer hijacks of the summer.
According to Graham, the Reds are attempting to intervene in Newcastle United’s proposed move for highly rated youngster Bazouma Toure.
The report claims Toure had already agreed personal terms with Newcastle. However, once Liverpool entered the picture, the player reportedly made it clear that his preferred destination is Anfield.
If accurate, it would represent a significant boost for Liverpool’s recruitment team.

Liverpool’s Pull Remains Strong
Despite competition from ambitious Premier League rivals, Liverpool continue to demonstrate their appeal to some of the game’s brightest young talents.
The opportunity to play for one of the biggest clubs in world football, combined with the arrival of Andoni Iraola, appears to be an attractive proposition for emerging players looking to take the next step in their careers.
If Toure has indeed prioritised Liverpool over Newcastle, it underlines the club’s continued ability to attract elite prospects.

Who Is Bazouma Toure?
Although still developing, Toure has earned a reputation as one of the most exciting young players in his position.
His athleticism, technical ability and potential have attracted attention from several clubs, making him a player Liverpool have reportedly been monitoring closely.
The Reds have increasingly focused on signing young talent capable of developing into first-team regulars, and Toure appears to fit that recruitment model perfectly.

Another Statement From Liverpool?
Liverpool have been linked with numerous young players throughout the summer, including Ayyoub Bouaddi, Josh Acheampong and Jeremy Jacquet.
Should the club succeed in convincing Toure to choose Anfield, it would be another indication that Liverpool remain committed to building for both the present and the future.
Rather than simply targeting established stars, the Reds continue to invest in players they believe can become elite performers over the coming years.

Newcastle Left Frustrated?
For Newcastle, the development would undoubtedly come as a disappointment.
The report suggests they had already reached an agreement with the player before Liverpool’s late intervention.
Transfer hijacks are becoming increasingly common in modern football, particularly when multiple elite clubs become involved.
However, convincing a player to change course after personal terms have reportedly been agreed would represent a significant victory for Liverpool if the deal materialises.

Still Work to Be Done
While the player’s reported preference is encouraging, a transfer is far from complete.
Liverpool would still need to reach an agreement with Toure’s current club before any move could be finalised.
As always, supporters should treat the latest reports with caution until official confirmation arrives.
Nevertheless, if Graham’s information proves accurate, Liverpool may have taken a major step towards securing another exciting young talent—and beating a Premier League rival in the process.
Source: Graham Telegraph

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool’s summer transfer plans continue to gather pace, and another familiar name has entered the conversation.
According to Anfield Watch, citing a report from TEAMtalk, Marcus Tavernier could be set for a reunion with Andoni Iraola at Anfield, with the Liverpool head coach reportedly keeping a close eye on his former Bournemouth player.
The report also states that Tavernier is attracting interest from several other Premier League clubs, meaning Liverpool could face competition if they decide to pursue a deal.

A Player Iraola Knows Well
One factor that immediately makes the link interesting is the existing relationship between player and manager.
Tavernier enjoyed some of the best football of his career under Iraola at Bournemouth, where he became an important part of the Spaniard’s energetic, high-pressing system.
Managers often look to sign players they know and trust, particularly during the early stages of a new project.
Tavernier already understands Iraola’s tactical demands, which could make any potential adaptation period significantly shorter.

What Would Tavernier Bring?
At 27, Tavernier is entering the prime years of his career.
He offers versatility across the attacking positions and is capable of playing on either wing or in a more advanced midfield role.
His biggest strengths include:
● Direct running with the ball.
● High work rate.
● Tactical flexibility.
● Creativity in the final third.
● Experience in the Premier League.
Those qualities align closely with the profile Liverpool appear to be targeting under Iraola.

An Experienced Alternative
Much of Liverpool’s transfer speculation has focused on exciting young talents such as Yan Diomande and Bradley Barcola.
Tavernier would represent a different type of signing.
Rather than investing in long-term potential, Liverpool would be bringing in a player already familiar with the Premier League and already comfortable working under Iraola.
That experience could prove valuable during what is expected to be a significant transitional period for the squad.

Competition Expected
If the report is accurate, Liverpool are unlikely to have a free run at the Bournemouth attacker.
Several Premier League clubs are also believed to be monitoring his situation, meaning any move could quickly become competitive.
Whether Liverpool decide to formalise their interest may depend on how other attacking targets develop over the coming weeks.

A Sensible Signing?
While Tavernier may not generate the same excitement as some of Europe’s emerging superstars, he could represent a smart addition.
Every successful squad needs reliable Premier League performers alongside elite young talent.
Having already thrived under Iraola, Tavernier could arrive with a clear understanding of exactly what the Liverpool head coach expects.
That familiarity alone makes this rumour one worth watching.
Whether Liverpool decide to move beyond monitoring remains to be seen, but if TEAMtalk’s report proves accurate, a reunion between Andoni Iraola and Marcus Tavernier may yet become one of the more intriguing stories of the transfer window.
Source: Anfield Watch, citing TEAMtalk.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Just 48 hours ago, Liverpool still had eight players competing at the 2026 World Cup.
Now, that number has been reduced to just three.
With several nations exiting the tournament over the past two days, Liverpool’s international contingent has rapidly diminished, giving Andoni Iraola the prospect of welcoming most of his squad back well before the new Premier League season begins.
The only Reds still involved are:
● 🇧🇷 Alisson Becker
● 🇦🇷 Alexis Mac Allister
● 🇪🇸 Victor Muñoz
And of those three, only Alisson has secured a place in the Round of 16 so far.

A Huge Boost for Iraola
While no player wants their international campaign to end early, Liverpool may ultimately benefit from the timing.
With the majority of the squad now free to begin their post-tournament break, they are expected to report back for pre-season later in July after a period of rest.
That gives Iraola valuable time to work with almost his entire squad before the Premier League kicks off.
For a new head coach, that continuity could prove invaluable.

More Time on the Training Ground
Implementing a new style of play takes time.
The more sessions a manager has with his players, the quicker those ideas can become second nature.
Liverpool supporters are eager to see Iraola’s high-intensity philosophy take shape, and having key players available for the majority of pre-season should accelerate that process.
With stars such as Florian Wirtz, Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak now out of the World Cup, the foundations for the new campaign can begin much earlier than many anticipated.

Alisson Still Flying the Flag
For now, Alisson remains Liverpool’s last confirmed representative in the knockout stages.
The Brazilian goalkeeper has once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the finest in world football, helping his country progress while keeping hopes of World Cup glory alive.
Liverpool supporters will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on Brazil’s progress, even if they also hope their number one returns to Merseyside fit and healthy.

Waiting on Mac Allister and Muñoz
There is still hope for Alexis Mac Allister and Victor Muñoz, whose international futures remain unresolved.
Should either progress, Liverpool’s World Cup representation would receive another boost.
If not, both players will join the growing list of Reds preparing for the new season under Iraola.

Focus Beginning to Shift
For Liverpool, the World Cup is slowly giving way to thoughts of the new campaign.
Pre-season is approaching.
New tactical ideas are waiting to be introduced.
Competition for places will begin.
And supporters are eager to see how the new-look Liverpool develops.
Only a few days ago, the club’s attention was spread across eight different international camps.
Now, with just three players still involved—and only Alisson guaranteed a place in the Round of 16—the focus is gradually returning to Anfield.
For Iraola, that may be one of the biggest positives of all.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Much of the conversation surrounding Liverpool this summer has focused on attackers.
Who replaces Mohamed Salah?
Will the club sign another winger?
Can Liverpool add more firepower?
Those are all important questions.
But there is another area of the team that could ultimately decide whether Liverpool challenge for major honours next season.
The defence.

Great Teams Are Built From the Back
History shows that Liverpool’s most successful sides have always been built on strong defensive foundations.
From Alan Hansen to Sami Hyypiä, from Jamie Carragher to Virgil van Dijk, every great Liverpool team has had leaders at the back.
While exciting attacking football captures the imagination, championships are often won by teams that defend consistently.
That is something Andoni Iraola understands well.

Iraola’s Teams Defend Aggressively
One misconception about Iraola is that he is purely an attacking coach.
In reality, his teams are organised, disciplined and incredibly difficult to play against.
Rather than sitting deep, they defend by pressing high, forcing mistakes and winning possession in dangerous areas.
That style places huge demands on defenders.
Centre-backs must be quick enough to defend large spaces.
Full-backs must recover rapidly.
Communication has to be excellent.
If Liverpool can master those principles, they could become one of the hardest teams in the Premier League to break down.

Competition Will Raise Standards
Liverpool now have genuine competition across the defensive unit.
Virgil van Dijk remains the leader, while younger defenders are pushing for opportunities.
Healthy competition rarely weakens a squad.
More often, it improves standards throughout the team.
Every training session becomes more intense.
Every player knows their place must be earned.
That environment is exactly what successful teams need.

Clean Sheets Build Confidence
One benefit of a strong defence is the confidence it gives the entire team.
Midfielders play with greater freedom.
Attackers take more risks.
The goalkeeper feels protected.
Everything becomes easier when players trust those behind them.
Liverpool experienced that during their most successful years under Jürgen Klopp.
Recreating that defensive confidence could be one of Iraola’s biggest achievements.

The Attack Will Take the Headlines
Florian Wirtz.
Alexander Isak.
Rio Ngumoha.
The attacking players will inevitably dominate headlines throughout the season.
Goals always attract attention.
But if Liverpool are lifting trophies next May, there is every chance the real story will have started much further back.
With a defence capable of providing the platform for everything else.

Success Starts Here
Liverpool supporters naturally love exciting football.
They want goals, pressing and entertainment.
Iraola appears capable of delivering all three.
But before any of that can happen consistently, Liverpool need stability at the back.
If the Reds can become defensively reliable once again, everything else may begin to fall into place.
Sometimes the most important signing isn’t a new player.
Sometimes it’s a new defensive identity.
And that could be the foundation of Liverpool’s next successful era.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Curtis Jones continues to attract interest this summer, but it appears one potential destination may already be off the table.
According to Ian Doyle, Nottingham Forest are interested in signing the Liverpool midfielder, although Jones is not thought to be keen on the move.
It is the latest development in what is becoming one of Liverpool’s most closely watched transfer stories.

Forest Looking to Strengthen
Nottingham Forest’s interest comes as they continue rebuilding their midfield following the departure of Elliot Anderson to Manchester City for a reported £116 million.
Jones’ Premier League experience, technical quality and versatility make him an attractive option for a club looking to replace such an influential player.
However, identifying a target and convincing the player are two very different challenges.

Jones Appears Unconvinced
According to Doyle, the Liverpool academy graduate is not enthusiastic about a move to the City Ground.
That does not necessarily mean he will remain at Anfield, but it does suggest he believes he can either fight for his place at Liverpool or secure a move that better matches his ambitions.
Having spent his entire professional career with the Reds, Jones is unlikely to rush into a decision.

A Fresh Opportunity Under Iraola?
One factor working in Jones’ favour is the arrival of Andoni Iraola.
Every managerial change brings renewed opportunity, and Jones will hope he can impress during pre-season and earn an important role in Liverpool’s plans.
Iraola has built a reputation for rewarding players who embrace his demanding style of football, and Jones possesses many of the technical qualities the Spaniard values.
That could persuade Liverpool to keep him rather than sanction a sale.

Liverpool Hold the Strong Position
Jones remains under contract, meaning Liverpool are under no immediate pressure to sell.
If the club decide he remains part of Iraola’s plans, they can simply retain him.
Equally, should they eventually agree to a sale, Liverpool are expected to seek a fee that reflects his experience and homegrown status.
That gives the Reds considerable control over the situation.

One to Watch
Interest from Nottingham Forest demonstrates there is still strong demand for Jones within the Premier League.
Whether another club enters the race remains to be seen.
For now, however, the latest reports suggest the midfielder is not convinced that Forest is the right next step.
With pre-season approaching, the coming weeks could prove decisive.
A strong summer under Andoni Iraola may yet convince both Liverpool and Curtis Jones that his future still belongs at Anfield.
Source: Ian Doyle.

Jamie (The Kopite View)