Journalist Reveals the Truth Behind Liverpool’s Interest in £84m Real Madrid Star | OneFootball

Did Liverpool Almost Sign Rodrygo from Real Madrid?

This summer has been a defining one for Liverpool. Fresh from winning the Premier League title in his debut season, Arne Slot has wasted no time in reshaping his squad. New arrivals such as Giorgi Mamardashvili, Jeremie Frimpong, Giovanni Leoni, Milos Kerkez, Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak have lifted the champions into an even stronger position. Yet among all the talk of transfers, there has been much debate about whether Liverpool came close to landing Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, who was valued at around £84m.

Lewis Steele, speaking on Anfield Index after his conversation with Dave Davis, shared fascinating insights into how the situation unfolded. His comments cut through much of the noise surrounding the story.

Rodrygo’s Camp Pushing for a Move

The Brazilian forward’s name dominated parts of the rumour mill, but according to Steele, the pressure came from Rodrygo’s own side. He explained: “Rodrygo’s camp were on the phone to Liverpool all of the time trying to get them to make a move for him.”

That persistence stretched beyond Merseyside. Steele added: “The reports of Man City being interested in Rodrygo was a plant from his camp to try and force Liverpool into action.” In other words, there was little real basis to suggestions of City’s involvement.

Steele concluded: “His camp were definitely trying to get him to Liverpool but Liverpool were having none of it.”

Liverpool’s Long-Term Plan

Liverpool’s refusal to bite reflected a clear plan. As Steele summed up, “It could’ve been a bit different this summer but I think they were always planning to upgrade the forward line and the full-backs.”

That plan is visible in the recruitment of Isak, Ekitike and Frimpong, each of whom addresses both depth and tactical versatility. The reluctance to move for an out-and-out winger also shows a faith in academy talent. Rio Ngumoha’s last-minute winner against Newcastle United only underlines why the club was determined not to block his pathway.

X: @LFC

A Squad Built with Balance

Liverpool’s transfer work has balanced immediate quality with long-term growth. Signing Wirtz and Leoni provides a nod to the future, while Mamardashvili and Kerkez give Slot options in key positions. The message from Anfield is clear, Liverpool are not chasing headlines, they are focused on sustainable success.

Rodrygo may have been a name pushed towards the club, but there was no appetite from the decision-makers. Instead, Liverpool have doubled down on their vision, backing Slot and trusting their young players to complement the star signings.