Jurgen Klopp might have ‘leaked’ Liverpool’s next transfer target during pre-match press conference

Jurgen Klopp might have teased Liverpool’s next transfer target during his pre-match press conference.

Ahead of this Sunday’s Premier League clash against Newcastle United, Liverpool boss Klopp was taking questions from the media.

During the press conference, Klopp was quizzed on the sheer financial power of the clubs in the Saudi Professional League.

This comes after it was reported that Al Ittihad is seriously interested in signing Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah.

Talking about the spending power of Saudi Arabian clubs, Klopp said: “It's not cool for us, that's clear. If we want a player from Wigan, say, we go there and we pay the price. Same in Bundesliga etc.

“Now there's a next level and it's not great but this is part of the business. Not sure you can change that.”

He added: “What makes it impossible to deal with is our transfer window closes and they stay open. Then we play until Jan 1 and this is our squad, we have that problem.

“I remember something like this in Russia long time ago. That was not completely crazy money. It's new and challenging. I am pretty sure FIFA could [change their deadline] like this (clicks finger) but I am not sure they want to.”

Klopp on Saudi spending:

“It’s not comfortable, it’s not cool for us. If we want a player from Wigan Athletic, we go there and they tell us the price and we pay it probably. Now, it’s the next level - it’s not great but I think this is kind of part of the business.”

— The Anfield Talk (@TheAnfieldTalk) August 25, 2023

After mentioning League One side Wigan Athletic in his answer, it has led to fans speculating over the possibility of Liverpool targeting Latics defender Charlie Hughes.

Hughes, 19, has been in impressive form so far this season. According to Who Scored, he has been the best teenager in League One with a score of 7.66.

Before joining Wigan as an Under-15 player, Hughes spent time with both Liverpool and Manchester City.

According to Wigan’s official website, Hughes is a ‘ball-playing centre-back who is comfortable in possession and shows great leadership qualities for a player of his age’.

Prior to the 21/22 season, Hughes was named captain of the Under-18 side before signing his first professional deal one month into the second year of his apprenticeship.