2027 Vision: Hughes and Edwards Already Planning the Future at Liverpool

Liverpool’s long-term strategy, steered by the ever-meticulous Michael Edwards and his deputy Richard Hughes, is no secret. A philosophy of forward planning, famously three transfer windows ahead, has been crucial in ensuring that the club remains competitive in the Premier League and Europe. Their meticulous contract management strategy ensures that Liverpool’s key assets are secured for the future, with eyes always on the 2027 horizon. They’ve been left with somewhat of a mess to sort.

With the contracts of major stars like Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold running until 2025, there are obvious priorities for contract extensions. However, they aren’t the only ones on the club’s radar. This upcoming summer, over 10 players will have just two years left on their deals, and as we move through the next transfer windows, these names will be under scrutiny. These players will either become part of the club’s long-term strategy or may be moved on to create room for the next generation.

Players to Watch: Expiring Contracts in 2027

One of the key focuses for Hughes and Edwards is the crop of players whose contracts are set to expire in 2027. That two-year period is where most clubs will renew or sell rather than allow them to go into their final year. Not only do these players represent significant value for the club, but they are also some of the most talented in the squad:

– Alisson Becker (Goalkeeper)
– Luis Díaz (Left Winger)
– Diogo Jota (Centre-Forward)
– Joe Gomez (Centre-Back
– Harvey Elliott (Central Midfield)
– Wataru Endo (Central Midfield)
– Conor Bradley (Central Midfield)
– Curtis Jones (Central Midfield)
– Jarrell Quansah (Centre-Back)
– Kostas Tsimikas (Full-Back)

There’s a real mix here, but the majority of these players represent a core that Liverpool will aim to keep stable as they look toward future challenges. With a focus on youth and long-term contracts, each of these players is expected to be pivotal in the next phase of Liverpool’s journey under Arne Slot. Some like Endo and Tsimikas will likely depart, though, and there are question marks over some, as the likes of Joe Gomez and Diogo Jota would both be 29.

Expiring Contracts in 2026

The 2026 group holds significant importance, with three key players standing out. These contracts will need to be addressed by next summer, with decisions required on potential extensions:

– Andrew Robertson (Left-Back)
– Ibrahima Konaté (Centre-Back)
– Caoimhín Kelleher (Goalkeeper)

These players have all had questions asked about their future and you wouldn’t it serious money on any of them being here by this date. Konate has been reportedly linked with an extension and it wouldn’t be a surprise either if that came out in the near future.

The 2027 Contract Horizon

When Hughes and Edwards look to the future, they see a squad that needs stability but also room for growth. By the summer of 2025, over ten players will have two years or less left on their contracts, which presents both an opportunity and a challenge. While some of these names will undoubtedly be retained, others might be moved on to maintain squad freshness. It’s possible that in a year’s time, the squad could look unrecognisable from what it is now, despite talk about continuity and keeping everything together.

This brings us to the situation with Luis Díaz. Fresh rumours about a potential new long-term deal for the Colombian winger emerged this week as Liverpool looks to secure him for the long haul. Numerous reports highlighted that Liverpool is offering Díaz a new deal, with his current wage standing at £55,000 per week. Given the rumours that have swirled this summer, it may come as a surprise to some that the club is eager to tie him down for the foreseeable future.

A key factor in all this is the contract of Feyenoord manager Arne Slot, who has been heavily linked with the Liverpool managerial job. His contract also runs until 2027, a curious coincidence that signifies just how important contracts are on the docket in the boardroom.

A Lot on Hughes’ Plate

The future of this Liverpool squad rests firmly in the hands of Richard Hughes, who will have a lot of work to do in the coming months. Beyond the headline names like Salah, Van Dijk, and Alexander-Arnold, there are numerous other players whose futures need to be addressed shortly after. The club’s success in maintaining its competitive edge will hinge on their ability to manage these contract situations effectively while keeping an eye on potential future signings.

Hughes doesn’t have a defined history with us like Edwards, so with player contracts and recruitment, Liverpool fans are hopeful rather than trusting of him to deliver. The next few windows will be crucial as the club looks to secure a squad capable of competing at the highest level for years to come. And with big names like Luis Díaz reportedly set to commence talks for an extension, the future isn’t set. There’s a lot of focus on the sporting director, regardless of any praising reports.