Football Presse

Hughes to remain at Liverpool as Al-Hilal links put to rest

ยทBy Paul Lindisfarne
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Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes will remain at the club this summer.

TalkSPORT is reporting that the Al-Hilal speculation has been firmly dismissed by those close to the situation.

Hughes had been heavily linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League side since reports emerged in March claiming he had reached an agreement in principle with Al-Hilal. Those claims, originating from Saudi-based journalist Ahmed Al-Ajlan, generated significant uncertainty at a crucial moment for the club. But sources have confirmed Hughes has rebuffed the approach and remains fully committed to the Liverpool rebuild.

Fenway Sports Group are understood to be pleased with Hughes's work since his arrival from Bournemouth in 2024. He oversaw a landmark transfer window last summer that delivered Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike โ€” a trio that cost in the region of ยฃ320 million combined. The board is clear that the rebuild will take several years to complete and Hughes is central to that process.

Hughes will play a major role in Liverpool's end-of-season review, which will determine Arne Slot's future as head coach. He is also already working on summer recruitment plans, with three or four senior additions understood to be the target. Hughes and CEO of football Michael Edwards are both contracted until 2027, though sources have indicated that the futures of the two are not formally linked.

Liverpool's season has been one of significant disappointment domestically, though they remain in contention for Champions League qualification. The Merseyside derby at Everton on Sunday is their next Premier League fixture.