Michael Edwards now lining up genius transfer to finally sign right-back | OneFootball

Michael Edwards is now lining up a genius move to sign a special right-back.

Edwards has come under a bit more scrutiny recently, with questions being raised about Liverpool’s long-term direction under FSG.

Since returning as FSG’s Head of Football Operations, he’s had a big hand in overseeing the club’s heavy spending last summer.

So far, that overhaul hasn’t fully clicked, but it’s still early days. Many of the signings are young, highly rated players, so there’s still a sense that the project could come together over time once everything settles.

That said, some of the criticism goes beyond just recruitment. When Edwards came back, there was an expectation that he would help push Liverpool further towards a multi-club model, similar to what’s seen at sides like Chelsea and Manchester City.

At the moment, though, that idea feels like it’s lost some momentum. It’s not really at the forefront anymore, which has naturally led to questions about what Edwards’ longer-term role at the club will actually look like.

His current deal runs until 2027, and there hasn’t been any real indication from Liverpool or FSG about extending it beyond that point.

Even with that uncertainty in the background, Edwards is still expected to stay focused on his main responsibility - helping Liverpool build a stronger squad over the next few years.

And given his long history with the club, there’s still a feeling that he’ll remain fully committed to putting Liverpool in the best possible position to compete at the top level again.

And that’s exactly what’s happening.

Since Edwards returned, Liverpool’s recruitment approach has noticeably shifted in a more modern and expansive direction. The club isn’t just focusing on familiar markets anymore - they’re actively widening their scouting reach and looking at talent from a far broader mix of countries and competitions than before.

That change in strategy is already starting to show in the profile of players coming in. Recent additions include Armin Pecsi, Ifeanyi Ndukwe and Mor Talla Ndiaye, all part of a clear push towards identifying young, high-upside talent early.

There’s also Sidy Barhama Ndiaye, who spent a couple of weeks training with Liverpool last summer and is still expected to join once he turns 18, barring any unexpected changes. Alongside him, Samuel Martinez has already been secured from Colombia and is set to arrive officially when he reaches 18.

More recently, Liverpool also appear to be stepping up their interest in another highly rated teenager, Kennet Eichhorn, with reports suggesting a move is being progressed quite quickly.

Taken together, it points to a recruitment model that’s becoming more proactive and future-focused.

Rather than just targeting established names, Liverpool are clearly trying to get ahead of the market by securing emerging prospects earlier and integrating them into the club’s long-term planning.

© IMAGO - Daniel Banjaqui Liverpool

The latest move Liverpool are now considering this summer is one for Daniel Banjaqui.

Pedro Marques, who was brought in from Benfica and works under Edwards, is a huge fan of the right-back. Anfield Watch exclusively brought the story that Banjaqui was on the Reds' radar.

The U17 World Cup champion has caught the eye at Benfica and has made several first-team appearances even providing an assist on his first ever start for the club.

Banjaqui is an exciting right-back, who has earned comparisons to Nuno Mendes at Paris Saint Germain, and there is a strong consensus he could have the same potential at the now world-class full-back.

Anfield Watch understands that Liverpool are working on signing a right-back this summer. Banjaqui is held in high regard and is being lined-up as a potential option.

It is understood Liverpool have held talks with the player's representatives recently, and a move is on the cards. The reason why Liverpool want to get a deal over the line this summer is because they want Banjaqui to qualify as a homegrown player - similar to Giovanni Leoni, and the aforementioned Ndiaye and Ndukwe.

Banjaqui is under contract at Benfica until 2031 and he has a release clause worth €80m. It is understood Liverpool would be looking to sign him for significantly less.