Liverpool only made four new signings in the summer transfer window, but Andoni Iraola’s side scoured the market across all areas of the pitch.
The Reds also agreed deals for Djylian N’guessan and Lucca Brughmans, with the teenagers set to arrive at Anfield in January 2027 and next summer, respectively.
Bids were rejected for Ismaila Sarr and Yankuba Minteh when it looked like Cody Gakpo would head to Manchester City, while a handful of defenders were also linked.
And now, David Ornstein has confirmed that former Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes wanted to compete with Chelsea for the signing of Marco Palestra.
Liverpool wanted Marco Palestra before Chelsea move
Palestra joined Chelsea from Atalanta for a fee believed to be in the region of £47m.
The Italian enjoyed a fine loan spell at Cagliari last season and has also been capped by the Italy national team.
Palestra attracted interest from a handful of clubs across Europe, and The Athletic have now confirmed that the Reds wanted to sign him as well.
An excerpt from their article reads: “Hughes explored the possibility of challenging Chelsea this summer with a bid to sign Marco Palestra from Atalanta.
“But Liverpool’s ability to do so was constrained by a need to strengthen in other areas, specifically on both wings, and a struggle to raise funds by selling fringe players.
“Ultimately, the club hierarchy hope Bradley’s recovery from injury will enable him to make the right-back spot his own.
“Richard Hughes’ initial target for left-back was Nuno Mendes, who was seen as feasible until he extended his contract with the French club in February 2025.”
Considering Conor Bradley’s injury woes and Jeremie Frimpong’s struggles, Liverpool could have done well with another full-back option in the squad.
However, Ronald Araujo’s loan signing has helped a little, with the Uruguayan delivering an impressive showing at right-back in the 2-0 win against Ipswich Town.
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