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Liverpool have yet to make a significant impact in the transfer window following their record-shattering spending spree last summer.
The Reds' hectic window, during which they broke their transfer record on two separate occasions, had many convinced they would cruise to consecutive Premier League titles. However, Arne Slot struggled to successfully blend his new arrivals into the squad, and the unbalanced champions ended up in fifth place—just enough to secure a Champions League berth.
The underwhelming campaign led to Slot's exit and the subsequent hiring of Andoni Iraola, after Chelsea quickly turned their attention to Xabi Alonso.
Iraola arrives at the club off the back of three impressive years at Bournemouth, capped by the club's first-ever European qualification. The Cherries finished just three points behind Liverpool last season, and their highly regarded manager has been handed the task of revitalizing a Reds side looking to reinvent themselves this summer.
Liverpool have already said goodbye to icon Mohamed Salah, long-serving Andy Robertson, and title-winning center back Ibrahima Konaté. Midfielder Curtis Jones is another whose future is uncertain, though Iraola is keen to retain his services.
'Great, Great Player'—Iraola Wants Curtis Jones To Stay
Jones is entering the final year of his contract at Liverpool and has attracted interest from Serie A champions Inter Milan.
Reports indicate the Reds have turned down a third bid from the Scudetto holders, reportedly valued at €32 million (£27.3 million, $36.6 million). Liverpool are holding firm for a minimum of €40 million (£34.2 million, $45.7 million), and Iraola has made clear he wants the 25-year-old to remain at the club.
Speaking to the press for the first time since taking charge, Iraola said of Jones: "I will have the chance to speak with him today [Monday]. I rate Curtis very highly. For me, he is a great, great player, and I hope he can continue with us and continue performing the way he has been performing."
Iraola highlighted the significance of the midfielder's character and his local roots, given the deep emotional connection Anfield has with homegrown talent. Jones, a dynamic midfielder who handles pressure well in possession, also possesses the qualities needed to thrive under Iraola's system.
"From the outside, at least, he looks like a player with good character, and I hope we can keep him, not only for this year but for more time."
New Liverpool Manager Insists Liverpool Need More Players
Despite last summer's near £450 million ($602 million) outlay, Iraola has called for "more players" as he begins his tenure at Anfield.
"Obviously we've signed two players already, but we need more players; we know this," the Spaniard told reporters. "The club is working on this."
As the Liverpool manager referenced, young center back Jérémy Jacquet and Spanish international Victor Muñoz have both joined the club this summer for a combined £94.5 million ($126.4 million).
The Reds are anticipated to make a significant move in the attacking department following Salah's exit and Hugo Ekitiké's Achilles injury, with Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola the name generating the most excitement among supporters on Merseyside. Liverpool had previously been linked with RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande, but the Ivorian winger now appears set to join Barcola's former club, PSG.
Iraola is eager to have his new additions available for a large portion of preseason, acknowledging that the timeline is challenging while noting the club is "working hard" to complete further signings.