Liverpool ‘well down the line’ to agree Richard Hughes deal – Sources
Liverpool are closing in on securing Richard Hughes as their new sporting director, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking to the new edition of Football Insider’s Insider Track Podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the Reds are “well down the line” in bringing the Bournemouth recruitment chief to Anfield.
The Cherries announced on Tuesday (5 March) that Hughes, 44, will depart the club at the end of the season after eight years as their technical director.
Hughes is highly regarded in recruitment circles following his impressive spell at the Vitality Stadium where he signed the likes of Dominic Solanke, Callum Wilson and Aaron Ramsdale.
Liverpool close in on sporting director Richard Hughes
Well-placed sources have told Football Insider that talks between Liverpool and the 44-year-old are underway, but he is also on the radar of multiple other clubs.
Newcastle United are keeping tabs on the former Scotland international to replace Dan Ashworth, who has been put on gardening leave ahead of a move to Man United.
Serie A giants AS Roma are also reportedly interested in Hughes, who can speak three languages including Italian.
The Reds are seeking a new recruitment chief following Jorg Schmadtke’s departure at the end of the January transfer window.
They also remain active in pursuing a new manager following Jurgen Klopp’s shock announcement in January that he will depart after nine years of service.
They have made Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso their top target, but sources have told Football Insider (5 March) that currently prefers a move to Bayern Munich.
Liverpool most recently thrashed Sparta Praha 5-1 in the first leg of their last-16 tie in the Europa League on Thursday evening (7 March).
They are next in action against title rivals Man City at Anfield on Sunday afternoon (10 March).
In other news, Liverpool next manager: Duo set for interviews after Xabi Alonso blow – sources.
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