Liverpool tipped to sign 'special' player who massively impressed at World Cup

Liverpool have been tipped to sign one of the World Cup's standout players this summer as they look to improve their squad ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Earlier this week, Andoni Iraola admitted in his first press conference as Liverpool head coach that the club "need more" players following the departures of several key players in recent weeks.

Andy Robertson said goodbye at the end of his contract to join Spurs, while other high-profile exits include Mohamed Salah and Ibrahima Konate, who is set to join Real Madrid on a four-year deal.

Víctor Munoz and Jeremy Jacquet have arrived on Merseyside but Iraola's side lack depth heading into pre-season.

"We have to get ready because this kind of hard season, injuries and situations will happen," said Iraola this week. "We have to get ready in squad depth to deal with the demands of the competition."

Of course, Liverpool will also be without Hugo Ekitike in the opening weeks as he continues to recover from a ruptured Achilles, while Conor Bradley and Geovanni Leoni are also out with long-term injuries.

So, who are Liverpool being linked with? They have reportedly reignited their interest in Roma's Manu Kone, who has impressed for France at this summer's World Cup.

Kone would be a perfect fit, according to former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock, who believes the 25-year-old midfielder has all the qualities to become a first-team regular under Iraola.

"I'd love to see Manu Kone at Liverpool," Warnock tells SPORTbible, in association with BetTOM. "I think he's brilliant. He's so comfortable on the ball, but he's also aggressive and physical. He's probably exactly what Liverpool need - an enforcer in midfield who can also play.

"The other thing is his stature. When you look at Liverpool's recent signings – Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz - they're not particularly big players. Liverpool need more height in the team.

"From defensive and attacking set-pieces, you need players who can score headers and clear their lines, and Kone gives you that."

Watching him, I just thought: ‘Wow, this kid is special.’

Warnock also believes wonderkid Gilberto Mora would be a quality signing for the Reds.

Mora, who plays his club football with Liga MX side Tijuana, made a solid impression for Mexico at the World Cup, becoming the eighth 17-year-old to play in the tournament when he featured against South Africa.

"Another player I'd look at is the young Mexican midfielder Gilberto Mora, not just for now but for the future," added Warnock. "Watching him, I just thought: ‘Wow, this kid is special.’ He's so young, but he's incredibly comfortable on the ball and plays with real maturity."

Gilberto Mora is attracting a serious amount of interest this summer. Image credit: Getty

Stephen Warnock on the player that has impressed him most at the World Cup

Warnock, who has been on commentary duty for the BBC in recent weeks, has watched his fair share of games at this summer's World Cup, but one player in particular stands out amongst the rest.

Asked which player has impressed him the most, Warnock replied: "Michael Olise. I've been fortunate enough to watch France a couple of times and his ability to inject pace into a game and produce something out of nothing is incredible.

"He can beat players, create moments and completely change the tempo of a game. Honestly, if I were a manager and could sign anyone in world football right now, he'd probably be the player I'd go after."