Richard Hughes knows it's now or never as €48m agreement reached | OneFootball

Richard Hughes has to act now or never.

The former Bournemouth sporting director arrived at Liverpool with a strong reputation after an impressive spell with the Cherries.

Hughes' track record up until that point had been hugely impressive.

However, his time at Liverpool so far two years on from joining has been relatively mixed.

Last summer, Hughes showed he was willing to be ambitious, overseeing several high-profile arrivals and backing the manager in the transfer market. However, spending heavily is only one part of the job. Building a balanced squad is just as important, and that is where he failed last summer.

Liverpool entered this summer needing reinforcements in several key positions, yet progress has been painfully slow.

With the new season approaching, the club still have obvious gaps to fill, while rivals have moved much more decisively. Missing out on priority targets has only added to the frustration, leaving supporters questioning whether Liverpool have been reactive rather than proactive in the market.

The uncertainty surrounding Hughes' own future has not helped either, with reports linking him to a move away from the club. Whether those rumours have had any impact behind the scenes is unclear, but the lack of momentum has been impossible to ignore.

There is still time for Hughes to turn the window around, but the pressure is mounting. Liverpool cannot afford another season with an unbalanced squad, and the coming weeks may ultimately define how his spell at Anfield is remembered.

One of the areas he has neglected this summer is the midfield.

On the surface, it may appear to be one of the strongest areas of the squad heading into the summer, but that stability could quickly be disrupted by several unresolved issues.

Alexis Mac Allister's future remains one of the biggest factors to monitor. The Argentine has attracted interest from some of Europe's leading clubs, while negotiations over a new contract have stalled.

With his importance to Liverpool's midfield structure, any uncertainty surrounding his long-term position would represent a significant concern.

Curtis Jones is facing an equally important crossroads.

Entering the final year of his contract, the academy graduate's future is far from certain. Unless Andoni Iraola can convince him that he remains a key part of his plans, Liverpool could be forced into making a decision over whether to extend his stay or consider a departure.

However, the deeper issue goes beyond potential exits.

Liverpool have been searching for a long-term solution at defensive midfield ever since Fabinho left the club in 2023. Despite exploring several options, including a high-profile pursuit of Moises Caicedo, they have yet to secure a natural successor capable of filling that role.

Ryan Gravenberch has adapted impressively when asked to operate as the deepest midfielder, but there remains a question over whether that position truly maximises his qualities.

His ability to carry the ball, break lines and contribute in advanced areas arguably makes him better suited to a more progressive role rather than as the primary defensive shield in front of the back four.

For Iraola's tactical approach, that distinction could prove crucial. His football relies on intensity, pressing and rapid transitions, which places significant demands on the midfield structure. A specialist no.6 capable of providing defensive security while also supporting Liverpool's build-up play could be a key addition.

That is why strengthening the midfield remains a priority this summer.

One of the ideal profiles who has been linked with Liverpool is Mamadou Sangare. He ticks every box and he would truly be the perfect player for Iraola's system.

However, Hughes has to act now or never.

that Brentford has struck a €48m agreement to sign Sangare from RC Lens.

The deal is not completed but Liverpool would have to step in immediately in order to hijack that deal. It's all in Hughes' hands. This is literally now or never.