Liverpool’s post-Jurgen Klopp plan takes a twist as Premier League rival announces departure

According to mirror.co, Bournemouth have revealed that highly regarded sports director Richard Hughes will quit his position at the conclusion of the season, citing interest from Liverpool. The former Bournemouth midfielder believes this is the “right time” to announce his resignation, with Liverpool looking to hire a new sports director before deciding on their next manager to succeed Jurgen Klopp. However, the Reds are not the only team apparently interested in Hughes’ services; Italian heavyweights Roma are also intrigued.

According to the Mail, both Liverpool and Roma are interested in signing the 44-year-old, who has been praised for his performance on the south coast since taking over in 2016 after two periods with Bournemouth. According to the source, Simon Francis, another former Cherries player who currently serves as deputy first-team technical director, is one of the finalists to follow Hughes.

Hughes has been suggested as a potential replacement for Jorg Schmadtke, who opted to step down as the Reds’ transfer head immediately after Klopp announced his departure. Michael Edwards, Liverpool’s sporting director from 2016 until 2022, is seen to be the club’s top pick, but he is reportedly reluctant to return to Anfield.

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Edwards, 44, has previously turned down one contact from Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group, which came after Klopp’s announcement on January 26. Since leaving Anfield two years ago, Edwards has formed his own consultancy, ‘Ludonautics’, with Ian Graham, Liverpool’s former head of research.

However, Hughes’ availability might persuade the Reds to shift their attention, after his exit was confirmed on Tuesday. “The club requires a healthy lead up time to plan for the summer and beyond so this is the right time to announce that I will be leaving at the end of the season,” a spokesperson for Bournemouth said.

“I look forward to returning as a supporter with my wife and our five children, who are the biggest Cherries fans, but first there is a vital finale to this season, and I am hoping for a strong finish. “Up the cherries.”

Bournemouth owner and chairman Bill Foley said, “I’m very grateful for Richard’s outstanding service to this football club.” His dedication to delivering competitive sides for us throughout the years is exemplified by our status as a Premier League club for seven of the previous nine seasons. I wish him the best in the future.”