Liverpool’s recent rejection of a bid for Wataru Endo from Marseille has caused a stir among fans and the media. However, journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed that this news was actually old, as the deal had already collapsed weeks ago. This raises the question of why this information is only now being made public.
In the world of transfers, clubs often control the flow of information, strategically releasing news when it benefits them. In Liverpool’s case, it seems they have a reason for revealing the rejected bid. By doing so, they may be sending a message to other clubs about the fee they are looking for. This tactic is not surprising for a well-run club like Liverpool.
Looking back to 2017, Liverpool had a lesson in the importance of keeping transfer dealings under wraps. A leaked meeting between Jurgen Klopp and Virgil van Dijk led to Southampton accusing Liverpool of breaching “tapping-up” rules. Liverpool had to apologize and put the transfer on hold until they eventually signed van Dijk in January. This experience taught the club the need to be tight-lipped about their business.
This secrecy sometimes leads to fans and journalists feeling in the dark about transfer activity. However, this shouldn’t cause undue concern. The unknowns and complexities of negotiations can often delay deals. For instance, Marseille’s rejected bid for Endo weeks ago may be holding up a potential loan move for James McConnell. The transfer carousel involves countless players waiting for their respective triggers to be pulled.
Liverpool’s transfer activity has been further complicated this summer by the arrival of new coach Slot. The club’s plans have been delayed as Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes assess their options. Hughes predicted that no business would be done until August. This means that eight of Liverpool’s potential starting XI haven’t even had a training session with Slot or met him yet.
While players on the USA tour seem to be adapting well to Slot’s methods, it’s impossible to gauge the team’s true position until they play a competitive game. Harvey Elliott’s comforting words about the team’s ability to adapt quickly should be taken in the context of pre-season. Supporters should trust the process and avoid getting frustrated if things don’t immediately click.
Ultimately, Liverpool supporters are in a waiting game. The club’s transfer dealings remain undisclosed, and no one has seen Slot’s Liverpool play a competitive game yet. The focus should not solely be on results but on the team’s development under Slot. A poor start to the season should not cause fans to lose faith. It will take time for supporters to truly feel at ease, but the players and Slot are doing their best to alleviate any anxieties.