Liverpool transfer news: The Reds have reportedly identified a Spanish attacking midfielder as a potential January signing, with Andoni Iraola seeking another creative option amid growing scrutiny of Florian Wirtz.
According to Transfer Feed, Liverpool have begun monitoring Villarreal’s Alberto Moleiro following a request from Iraola. The Spanish club reportedly value the 23-year-old at €50 million to €60 million and have little interest in accepting a reduced fee.
Why Liverpool want another attacking midfielder
Moleiro has attracted attention through his performances for Villarreal since joining from Las Palmas in 2025. He can operate centrally behind the striker or cut inside from the left, giving Iraola another option when Liverpool need sharper movement around the opposition penalty area.
His close control, quick combinations and ability to receive between defensive lines could prove useful in a side seeking greater attacking fluidity. Furthermore, his versatility would allow Liverpool to change their attacking shape without replacing several players.
However, the timing of this reported interest raises questions. Liverpool invested heavily in Wirtz, who has struggled to produce consistent attacking numbers since arriving at Anfield. He has registered one Premier League assist this season, while the 3-0 defeat against Manchester City on 11 October intensified criticism of Liverpool’s attacking performances. Reuters reported on 14 October that Iraola continues to back the German playmaker despite the pressure.
Moleiro could provide competition, but another expensive creative midfielder would leave Liverpool needing a clear plan for distributing minutes between their attacking options.
Liverpool transfer news: Would a €60m move solve Liverpool’s problems or create new ones?
There is a convincing footballing argument for signing Moleiro, particularly if Iraola wants his side to attack quickly after winning possession. The Spaniard could carry the ball through pressure, connect midfield with the forwards and offer an alternative when Wirtz struggles to influence matches.
Yet Liverpool’s difficulties against Manchester City exposed broader concerns than creativity alone. Defensive transitions, midfield protection and the ability to control dangerous counter-attacks deserve serious attention before the January window opens.
Spending €60 million on another attacking midfielder could therefore become an expensive distraction if those weaknesses remain unresolved. Moleiro’s arrival would make more sense if Liverpool planned to rotate their creators regularly or use him in a different attacking role, rather than expecting him to replace Wirtz immediately.
My view is that Liverpool should pursue Moleiro only if Iraola has a specific tactical role prepared for him. His technical qualities could improve Liverpool’s movement and give the manager greater flexibility, but the club must avoid treating another signing as an automatic solution to Wirtz’s difficulties.
At this price, Liverpool need more than promising potential. They need a player who addresses a clearly identified weakness without creating another selection headache. If Villarreal refuse to negotiate below €50 million, Liverpool should compare that investment with the cost of strengthening their defensive midfield and improving their transition play.
