Liverpool’s pursuit of World Cup breakout talent inflates transfer fees

Liverpool are intensifying their search for young World Cup stand‑outs, a drive that has pushed expected fees to new heights. The club have identified Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, whose strong performances for Morocco at the tournament have reportedly raised his valuation to at least €40‑45 million, with competition from wealthier rivals such as Manchester City.

At the same time, Norwegian winger Andreas Schjelderup, who helped Norway reach the quarter‑finals, rejected a €18 million contract extension with Benfica to force a move to England. His price tag has climbed to a minimum of €50 million (£43 million) after the World Cup exposure. Both players are being tracked by Liverpool’s recruitment team under new head coach Andoni Iraola, who has already added Spanish winger Victor Munoz and French centre‑back Jeremy Jacquet to the squad. Liverpool must balance these potential signings against interest from other Premier League clubs such as Chelsea and Tottenham, and consider the financial implications of a market that now commands “World Cup tax” premiums.