Three Bournemouth Stars Iraola Could Bring to Liverpool in Stunning Raid on His Former Club

There's a common misconception that every football manager operates like Harry Redknapp.

Redknapp, as is well known, always leaned on his trusted circle. From "Niko" to "Crouchy" to Jermain Defoe, the former 'King of the Jungle' consistently relied on familiar faces and proven relationships.

But the modern-day football coach embraces the challenge that comes with a new setting. When a manager makes the move, there's no certainty that the players he once guided will make the same journey.

Andoni Iraola thoroughly merits his high-profile move from Bournemouth to Liverpool. The Spanish tactician is the frontrunner to take over from Arne Slot at Anfield after three remarkable seasons with the Cherries, capped off with a Europa League qualification.

Shrewd transfer activity complemented Iraola's exceptional coaching to build a genuinely formidable side, and after Liverpool's costly yet underwhelming summer spending, they may look to capitalize on Iraola's connections to one of the Premier League's rising mid-table forces.

Iraola forged strong bonds with his players on the south coast, and there are three individuals, in particular, whom Liverpool could look to lure to Merseyside in his wake this summer.

1. Rayan

Mohamed Salah is not expected to reverse course despite Slot's exit, with the club keen to secure his successor well ahead of the 2026–27 campaign.

RB Leipzig's electrifying winger Yan Diomande is reportedly their primary target, but the Ivorian, who has just one standout season to his name, carries a hefty €130 million ($150 million) price tag set by the Bundesliga outfit.

Leipzig's position may eventually shift, but Liverpool, whose two marquee signings both endured difficult first seasons, would be gambling heavily on Diomande regardless of how far they can negotiate his fee down.

A more prudent option could be pursuing Rayan. The Brazilian international only arrived at Bournemouth in January, yet the youngster already looks like the genuine article. A flexible wide attacker equally comfortable cutting inside, Rayan possesses the physical attributes to thrive in the Premier League.

Liverpool were reportedly interested in the 19-year-old during his time at Vasco de Gama, and they'll undoubtedly remain curious after witnessing how naturally he has adapted to English football.

Rayan, naturally, won't come at a bargain price, and Bournemouth have already made clear their intention to hold onto the Brazilian talent.

2. Alex Scott

Liverpool's midfield clicked beautifully in Arne Slot's debut season, but the engine room became a glaring weakness in year two. Crucially, the Dutchman chose to address a right-back shortage by deploying Dominik Szoboszlai in defense.

The Reds lost their dynamism with Szoboszlai out of position, as Alexis Mac Allister struggled considerably alongside Ryan Gravenberch. Liverpool's midfield was repeatedly overwhelmed and outmuscled, frequently leaving a fragile backline exposed.

Not only do they need more energy and drive through the center, but a creative passer is also essential. If Adam Wharton proves out of reach, Liverpool should shift their focus to Alex Scott, who looks destined for England recognition.

Scott is more of a ball-carrier than a distributor, yet the headband-wearing midfielder is more than capable when it comes to breaking defensive lines or launching his side on the counter.

He has flourished under Iraola's guidance, and if there's one player the Spaniard will be most eager to bring along to Anfield, Scott seems the obvious choice.

3. Eli Junior Kroupi

Should Marcos Senesi commit to Tottenham Hotspur, then 24-year-old James Hill is a defender who may have attracted Liverpool's attention. He finished the campaign alongside Senesi and delivered an impressive showing.

While Hill played a quietly influential role in Bournemouth's extended unbeaten streak, Eli Junior Kroupi earned widespread recognition.

Kroupi holds the Premier League record for the most goals by a teenager in a debut season, netting 13 times. He has become a beloved figure in north London, with his precise finish against Manchester City proving pivotal as Arsenal clinched their first league title in 22 years on the second-to-last matchday.

The 19-year-old is a clinical second striker that Liverpool don't particularly need, even with center forward Hugo Ekitiké having suffered a serious Achilles injury in April. The Reds will be banking on Alexander Isak staying healthy and Florian Wirtz stepping up in his second season.

They may need additional cover in attacking areas, especially out wide, but Kroupi, should he depart Bournemouth this summer, is more likely to join a club that can offer him regular starts. Liverpool cannot currently make that promise.

It was poor squad construction that played a significant part in their downfall in 2025–26, and bringing in Kroupi would represent yet another misuse of resources.

The wiser move would be to let their 'Big Six' rivals fight it out among themselves.