The Athletic FC Podcast Summary
Episode: How much more will Liverpool spend this summer?
Release Date: June 25, 2025
Host: Ayo Akinwolere
Guests: David Ornstein (Football Correspondent), James Pearce (Liverpool Correspondent)

Introduction

In this episode of The Athletic FC Podcast, host Ayo Akinwolere delves deep into Liverpool's transfer activities during the summer of 2025. Joined by esteemed football correspondents David Ornstein and James Pearce, the discussion centers around Liverpool's strategic signings, financial strategies, and future prospects as they build on their Premier League success.

Liverpool's Vigorous Transfer Activity

Ayo kicks off the conversation by highlighting Liverpool's aggressive approach in the transfer market, evidenced by the acquisition of Jeremy Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen and the imminent signing of Milos Kirkz.

David Ornstein elaborates on Kirkz's impending move:

"Liverpool have been busy, haven't they? Kirkz is their top target to strengthen the left-back position...” ([02:11])

James Pearce adds context about Florian Wirtz's record-breaking transfer:

"The jewel in the crown, the apple of their eye is Florian Wirtz, and that piece of business is record-breaking done and dusted in time for the pre-season. Very slick you could say." ([03:30])

Strategic Financial Management

The discussion transitions to Liverpool's financial health, with James Pearce emphasizing the club's sustainable spending habits despite significant investments.

James Pearce states:

"Liverpool are set really nicely in terms of what the market looks like. They've spent, they've invested but they've paid values for all of those players that don't make you turn around and raise an eyebrow..." ([04:45])

David Ornstein concurs, highlighting Liverpool's ability to balance spending with incoming revenues:

"Liverpool have kept their powder dry in terms of available cash to spend in recent markets. They aim for sustainability, which is why they are looked upon by many in the market as being among the best in class." ([07:00])

Role of the Sporting Director

A pivotal part of Liverpool's success is the role of Richard Hughes, the sporting director. The guests discuss his influence in orchestrating deals and maintaining the club's strategic vision.

David Ornstein explains:

"Richard Hughes is an absolutely critical figure in this as he was at Bournemouth. Coming into Liverpool, it was a big step up... the transfer market." ([19:42])

David Ornstein further underscores Hughes' strategic approach:

"The test of a sporting director is to be able to say no to things and preserve a club's money and to develop from within and find solutions that are not necessarily just found by jumping into the market." ([24:19])

Florian Wirtz: Liverpool's Record Signing

One of the episode's highlights is the discussion on Florian Wirtz, Liverpool's new record signing from Germany.

James Pearce remarks on Wirtz's significance:

"This man is a sensation... Florian Wirtz is the gem of German football. He’s the best they have." ([17:05])

David Ornstein compares the signing to past marquee moves:

"When you look at the players who have gained icon status, Mohamed Salah being the greatest example... Florian Wirtz is buying the finished article." ([17:36])

The move not only signifies Liverpool's intent to bolster their squad but also sets a precedent for future high-profile acquisitions.

Future Prospects and Potential Signings

Looking ahead, the conversation explores Liverpool's potential moves to further strengthen the squad, including the possible acquisition of Darwin Nunez and center-backs like Gerald Hato from Ajax.

Ayo Akimolere queries:

"Are Liverpool fully stocked financially? We'll discuss potential future signings later, including Verts. Are Liverpool financially in a good place based on those reasons?" ([08:40])

David Ornstein responds:

"This shows Liverpool are incredibly serious about winning the Premier League title and starting a new golden era. The recent signings are a perfect example of that." ([12:55])

The team also considers the implications of Darwin Nunez potentially moving to another club, assessing whether Liverpool needs to reinforce their striker position.

David Ornstein adds:

"Liverpool would need to go and get a replacement. It's about ensuring they have sufficient depth in that department." ([35:07])

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a forward-looking assessment of Liverpool's transfer strategies, emphasizing their commitment to building a resilient and competitive squad. With strategic signings, sustainable financial practices, and a strong leadership team, Liverpool is poised to remain a formidable force in English and European football.

Ayo Akinwolere wraps up:

"James, David, thank you so much for your time and also thank you guys for listening as well. We'll be back with more on Friday with the latest installment of our summer series." ([44:57])

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• David Ornstein ([02:11]):
  "This is a signing that they had long pursued. It's not completed just yet... They flew over to the UK from Belgrade to undergo his medical."

• James Pearce ([04:45]):
  "Liverpool are set really nicely in terms of what the market looks like... they are trying to strengthen and improve in areas they needed to."

• David Ornstein ([17:36]):
  "Wirtz is the gem of German football. He’s the best they have."

• David Ornstein ([24:19]):
  "It's no set way of doing it. However, the way you do it needs to be right for the club and the people, and at the moment, it seems Liverpool are on a decent path."

Key Takeaways

• Aggressive Yet Sustainable Transfers: Liverpool has made significant signings like Jeremy Frimpong, Milos Kirkz, and Florian Wirtz, balancing investment with financial prudence.

• Strong Leadership: Sporting Director Richard Hughes plays a crucial role in strategizing and executing transfers that align with the club's long-term vision.

• Future Ambitions: Liverpool is not resting on their laurels after winning the Premier League; they aim to build a golden era with continuous investment in top talent.

• Financial Health: The club maintains a sustainable financial model, leveraging revenues from Champions League successes and commercial deals to fund transfers.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from The Athletic FC Podcast episode on Liverpool's summer spending, providing listeners with an in-depth understanding of the club's strategic maneuvers and future plans.