Liverpool Football Club’s recent transfer history has been widely celebrated by supporters and analysts alike. The recruitment strategy implemented over the past decade has turned the Reds into serial contenders, not just domestically but across Europe. The likes of Roberto Firmino, Gini Wijnaldum, Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané, Virgil van Dijk, Alisson Becker, Andrew Robertson and Fabinho formed the backbone of a golden era under Jürgen Klopp, ultimately restoring the club to its former European glory.
A newer generation of signings — including Luis Díaz, Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch, Cody Gakpo, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Ibrahima Konaté — has since continued to refresh the squad, contributing to a second Premier League title. While these acquisitions have largely been viewed as successful, the club has not been without its share of near-misses and transfer disappointments.
Rodrygo: The One That Got Away?
Among the deals that failed to materialise, the case of Rodrygo Goes stands out. Now an established player at Real Madrid, Rodrygo could very well have worn Liverpool red had he made a different decision during his teenage years.
“We did not close the deal because I did not want to,”
Rodrygo revealed, as quoted by Goal.
“I wanted to stay at Santos even though the offer was very good. The pathway they promised me would also have been very good for my career. I was going to finish my studies in England to prepare for European football.”
At the time, Michael Edwards held the position of sporting director at Liverpool. Known for his shrewd approach to recruitment, Edwards had built a reputation for pulling off signings that delivered beyond expectations. He had reportedly made a move for Rodrygo in 2017, when the Brazilian attacker was still making his name at Santos.
“It had always been my dream to play in Europe. Everything was very good, but my desire spoke louder. I wanted to stay at Santos and make a bit of history at the club. And that’s what happened. I was able to fulfil my dream of playing for Santos. But it’s true, I almost went to Liverpool.”
At just 16, Rodrygo had already broken into the first team at Santos and was beginning to attract international attention. His rise culminated in a transfer to Real Madrid in 2019, reportedly worth €45 million. Since joining Los Blancos, Rodrygo has lifted three La Liga titles, two UEFA Champions League trophies, the Copa del Rey, and a Club World Cup.
Uncertainty in Madrid: Is Rodrygo’s Future Up for Debate?
Despite his impressive résumé, questions are surfacing about Rodrygo’s long-term role at Real Madrid, particularly following the highly anticipated arrival of Kylian Mbappé. Though Rodrygo has contributed 13 goals and 10 assists this season, he has increasingly found himself on the fringes of the starting eleven.
In the most recent El Clásico — a 4–3 defeat to Barcelona — Rodrygo remained an unused substitute, fuelling speculation about his status within the squad. Spanish outlet Marca reports that the player has been evaluating his situation for several months.
“It is suggested that Rodrygo will have no shortage of options from major European teams,”
they note.
Given his versatility and experience at the highest level, he would represent an appealing option for several elite clubs should he choose to seek a new challenge.
Could Liverpool Renew Their Interest?
At Anfield, changes are also underway. Arne Slot is set to take charge as head coach, and early signs suggest the Dutchman will seek to reinforce the attack. While Liverpool were crowned Premier League champions under Slot’s inaugural season, questions loom over the depth and productivity of their forward line.
Darwin Núñez has struggled to live up to expectations, netting only seven times across all competitions. Diogo Jota, despite his sharp instincts, has once again been hampered by persistent injuries. Slot is believed to prioritise a new striker, but Rodrygo — who can operate centrally or on either flank — might present a tempting alternative.
Nonetheless, competition for places is fierce. Salah remains the undisputed starter on the right, having registered a staggering 33 goals this season. On the opposite wing, Luis Díaz and Cody Gakpo have jointly delivered 35 goals, showcasing their effectiveness in rotation.
Given the financial outlay likely required for a player of Rodrygo’s calibre — especially amid reports of a rejected €120 million offer last summer — Liverpool may need to be strategic. Reinforcements in defence, including at left-back and potentially a successor for Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back, are also on the agenda.
A New Sporting Vision
Richard Hughes, appointed as Liverpool’s sporting director, has spoken openly about taking advantage of market opportunities. This approach aligns with the broader philosophy reinstated by Fenway Sports Group’s CEO of Football, Michael Edwards, whose return last summer marked a renewed focus on data-driven, opportunistic recruitment.
It raises an intriguing possibility. Should the stars align, and should Rodrygo become genuinely available, Liverpool might reconsider a pursuit that once seemed a foregone conclusion. His blend of youth, experience, and versatility makes him a compelling fit — but only if the financial and tactical pieces fall into place.
