Report: Liverpool eye £45m Premier League star in full-back shake-up | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Wolves’ Rayan Ait-Nouri as Dynamic Left-Back Solution

Liverpool’s long-term planning under Arne Slot and Richard Hughes appears to be ramping up as the summer window nears, and a new name is now being strongly linked to Anfield: Rayan Ait-Nouri. While attention has been drawn to Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz in recent days, the club’s recruitment radar is clearly scanning multiple directions, with both full-back slots under review.

According to sources close to Empire of the Kop, “Liverpool are also targeting the possible signing of a left-back this summer, namely Rayan Ait-Nouri.” It’s a line that carries weight, not just for who it names, but because of what it implies: this Liverpool side, newly crowned Premier League champions, are not content to stand still.

Strategic Flexibility and Full-Back Firepower

With Milos Kerkez already on the club’s radar, Hughes’ wider approach appears adaptive, detailed, and pragmatic. The inclusion of Ait-Nouri on the shortlist reinforces the idea that Liverpool are seeking full-backs who offer more than just defensive solidity — they want creators, disruptors, and press-beaters.

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“Liverpool are expected to negotiate for him during the summer transfer window,” the report continues. The fee, reportedly between £40m and £45m, signals serious intent. While Wolves are planning to extend his deal to 2030, interest from across Europe — including Arsenal, Manchester City and AC Milan — confirms that Liverpool’s eyes are fixed on a player whose stock is undeniably rising.

Slot’s New Puzzle

What this potential move underlines is the shift in Liverpool’s tactical future. With Arne Slot’s in charge, the emphasis seems to be on more progressive profiles in key positions. Ait-Nouri fits into a version of Liverpool that is quicker, more dynamic in transition, and better equipped to unlock deep blocks.

At just 23, Ait-Nouri brings experience and untapped potential, a dual threat that makes him a smart, if expensive, investment. Whether this is a reaction to Robertson’s injury profile or simply a desire to raise the competitive floor, it signals Liverpool’s intent to future-proof their full-back corridors.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Rayan Ait-Nouri to Liverpool? It’s a name that certainly gets you thinking. The lad has been one of the Premier League’s most quietly effective full-backs, and to hear that “Liverpool are expected to negotiate” suggests this isn’t just a rumour tossed about to stir the pot.

Andy Robertson has been a phenomenal servant, but he’s 30 this year and has had injury niggles. As Liverpool fans, we’ve learned the importance of depth — and let’s be honest, Kostas Tsimikas hasn’t always looked ready to step up against elite opposition. Ait-Nouri? He’s younger, more aggressive in attack, and fits the Slot profile to a tee.

It won’t be easy. £45m is steep, especially if Wolves play hardball. But if Hughes and Slot think Ait-Nouri can be a “game changer,” then that’s the kind of bold, forward-thinking move we need.