Julian Ward’s return as Liverpool sporting director has thrust him immediately into negotiations over two of the club’s most important players, with Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker’s contract situations topping his agenda.
Van Dijk insisted after the recent Bournemouth match that he has not yet heard from club officials regarding his future, whilst Alisson wrestled with the prospect of a Juventus move earlier in the year. Both remain central to manager Andoni Iraola’s plans this season.
Ward, who previously held the sporting director role before departing in 2023, returns to Anfield with experience of handling sensitive renewals. His successful extension of Mohamed Salah on Mykonos in summer 2022 demonstrates his track record, though that process was lengthy and drawn out.
The appointment comes after Richard Hughes departed for Saudi Arabia following the transfer window closure. Ward must now balance these contract talks with planning for the January transfer window.
Sources
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