Michael Edwards: The Genius Negotiator Behind Liverpool’s Move to Sign Florian Wirtz | OneFootball

Edwards and Hughes Will Want to Secure Long-Term Security this Summer

One summer ago, Liverpool fans watched the club move modestly in the market, adding only Federico Chiesa in what was viewed as a lean and measured recruitment window. It prompted mutterings—some louder than others—from a restless online faction who questioned whether Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes, the brains now running Liverpool’s football operations, had the conviction or clout to rebuild a side that had begun to fray in Klopp’s final campaign. The talk of a multi-club model was not greeted warmly by many, as it was seen as an FSG measure that would grow their brand, rather than enhance Liverpool Football Club’s success on the pitch.

Fast forward to May 2025, and those questions have evaporated into the smoke-filled Merseyside sky, as a red mist starts to prevail to reveal the Premier League trophy. Arne Slot, the duo’s handpicked head coach that no one had predicted, has delivered that Premier League title in his first season, returning Liverpool to the top of English football with a squad balanced, mature, and composed. Now, with momentum on their side and a statement of intent already inked with the Jeremie Frimpong deal, all signs point toward an aggressive summer where long-term security—not just short-term success—will be the guiding principle. The fantastical links to the world-class German, Florian Wirtz, have only compounded the sense of security.

Squad Evolution, Not Revolution

Despite winning the league, the Liverpool squad still has areas that need addressing—both in quality and in succession planning. Edwards has never been one to stand still, and this summer will likely mark the second phase of structural evolution, with a proven track record of excellence in recruitment. Players like Luis Díaz, Darwin Núñez and Diogo Jota are now legitimate sales candidates, with significant interest across Europe and the Saudi Pro League. An ability and confidence in adding significant funds to the Anfield war chest has seen preemptive moves before the season has even ended.

That doesn’t mean a fire sale—it means clever repositioning and squad building to attain forward momentum. The Frimpong signing instantly upgrades the right flank and likely covers the void expected with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure, as well as Mohamed Salah, for when he departs for the African Cup of Nations. Now, the focus turns to the final third creativity, where Florian Wirtz could be the crown jewel this summer. The German playmaker represents the type of long-term thinking Edwards has always prioritised: young, world-class potential, and tactically versatile. It’s what the fanbase wants and it could be what they receive.

Slot has already begun to instil a more structured, controlled game model at Anfield. Adding Wirtz—or a player of similar ilk—recalibrates the offensive balance that has so often been reliant on the invention of TAA. It’s not just about flair. It’s about orchestration and control in high-stakes environments. This is an evolution with purpose and even in the pre-game press conference for the Crystal Palace game, the straight-talking Dutchman was quick to state the failings and lack of professionalism of his soon-to-be departed number 66.

Contract Clarity and Internal Certainty

Beyond incomings, the leadership group will also look to clean up any lingering contract questions. Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk have committed to at least two more seasons, but clarity over his long-term intentions—alongside Ibrahima Konaté and Alisson Becker—will be high on the agenda. These are not just legacy players; they are cultural pillars that allow full pitch coverage of the highest order. If Liverpool is to stay at the summit, the internal core must be defined, either by renewals or succession plans.

It also means decisions on depth in the coming weeks and months. Players like Joe Gomez, Curtis Jones, and Kostas Tsimikas, also face defining moments in their Liverpool careers. Are they long-term pieces, or squad members with resale value? These are not dramatic calls—they’re executive ones. Edwards and Hughes are methodical, and their approach will reflect as much. The following players are all players that could be sold on this summer, with a desire to give the title winners the best chance of retaining their title.

Sale Candidates?

Caoimhin Kelleher

Kostas Tsimikas

Joe Gomez

Jarell Quansah

Nat Phillips

Rhys Williams

Wataru Endō

Ben Doak

Tyler Morton

Federico Chiesa

Harvey Elliott

Luis Díaz

Darwin Núñez

Diogo Jota

Sustained Success, Not Flash in the Pan

One title isn’t enough—not for Liverpool, not under these sky-high footballing standards. What Edwards and Hughes are building is not simply a team capable of one great year, but an era that can sustain and dominate. The blueprint involves high-ceiling talent, positional succession, and tactical cohesion with the coaching staff. Slot’s arrival wasn’t just about continuity—it was about reinvention with restraint. Manchester City is wavering under the weight of 115 charges and the opening to become the national powerhouse is within the club’s grasp.

With the first trophy in hand and transfer plans already in motion, Liverpool now looks set to begin a new cycle—one engineered not by chance, but by calm, calculated ambition. Under the executive leadership of Edwards and Hughes, that’s the exact kind of security fans should now come to expect.

No more FSG out.