Brandt, Carvajal and Goretzka among free agents Liverpool could target as Iraola shapes his squad

Andoni Iraola begins his Liverpool tenure with one signing already secured — Victor Munoz for £35 million — but the new head coach faces a significant rebuild after the departures of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate left clear gaps across the squad.

With the summer transfer window open and the free-agent market now active from July 1, Liverpool have the opportunity to supplement their spending with cost-free additions. Iraola’s priority is reinforcing the attack, though the defence and midfield also require attention ahead of his debut Champions League campaign.

Julian Brandt

The 29-year-old ended a seven-year spell at Borussia Dortmund this summer, becoming available on a free transfer. Capable of operating as an attacking midfielder or winger, Brandt offers the kind of versatility Liverpool’s forward line will need without Salah and with Federico Chiesa’s future uncertain. He brings more than 80 Champions League appearances and 12 years of Bundesliga experience — a profile that will attract multiple clubs, with Leeds United among those reportedly interested.

Brandt carries a particular footnote in Liverpool’s history: Jurgen Klopp had reportedly considered him before ultimately signing Salah instead.

Dani Carvajal

The 34-year-old right-back has brought the curtain down on a Real Madrid career that spanned more than 450 appearances and six Champions League titles. His age and fitness history mean he would likely serve as a short-term option, but Liverpool’s need at right-back is genuine — Conor Bradley has fitness concerns, and Jeremie Frimpong’s arrival has not yet been confirmed. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s move to Madrid adds a certain symmetry to any potential approach for one of the club’s most decorated servants.

Leon Goretzka

The Germany international has been linked with Liverpool on previous occasions and is now a free agent following his departure from Bayern Munich after eight years. A physically imposing central midfielder with Champions League pedigree, Goretzka would address one of the more pressing structural needs in Iraola’s squad.

The Broader Picture

Iraola’s appointment represents a clear tactical shift from Arne Slot’s methods, and the club’s hierarchy is expected to back him in the market. The free-agent route offers Liverpool a way to add proven quality without the premium transfer fees that the summer’s most coveted players will command. Whether Iraola moves for one, several, or none of these names, the direction of his rebuild is becoming clearer.