Richard Hughes. Source: Imago Images
Liverpool had a more than underwhelming summer transfer window and sporting director Richard Hughes came under pressure for failing to complete the priority objectives of the club.
The Reds wanted to sign a defensive midfielder, which is now in the offing in January, and Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi was heavily courted with the club under the impression that he wanted the move.
However, the Spaniard decided against leaving La Real and Liverpool decided against pursuing any other alternative targets, much to the dismay of the Reds fans.
Ryan Gravenberch has emerged as the saviour in midfield for the Reds and has been one the most improved players under the tutelage of new manager Arne Slot.
However, it seems the club had other targets as well and the last-minute move for Federico Chiesa was understandable as the club did want to sign a winger.
Leeds United star Crysencio Summerville joined West Ham after the Whites failed to get promoted to the Premier League at the end of last season.
Liverpool were linked with him as well but their interest was more serious than previously anticipated.
Liverpool could not guarantee regular game time to Summerville
Chiesa’s arrival shows that Liverpool clearly wanted a winger and the Italian was signed as a last-ditch attempt after failing to land other targets.
Summerville was a big target and according to The Athletic, Liverpool indeed made an enquiry for the winger in the summer.
Chelsea were also interested but the player decided against joining either of the two more illustrious Premier League clubs in favour of West Ham.
Regular game time was a serious consideration for the player and Chelsea and Liverpool couldn’t provide any guarantees while West Ham pushed to sign him.
Liverpool were not in a position to provide any playing time guarantees to Summerville given the quality of wingers they had in the squad.
However, he has started just one Premier League game for West Ham this season and has yet to register a goal or assist for the Hammers who are struggling as well.
It is unclear if it would have been much better if he had joined Liverpool given Chiesa’s struggles albeit the Italian has struggled to remain fit since joining the Reds.
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