Liverpool close to securing Szoboszlai on new deal to end free-transfer fears

Liverpool are closing in on a new contract for Dominik Szoboszlai, ending the risk of losing the Hungary captain on a free transfer or at a cut-price fee, in a significant boost for incoming head coach Andoni Iraola.

The 25-year-old midfielder has entered the last two years of his current deal, leaving Liverpool exposed to the same scenario that saw Ibrahima Konaté depart to Real Madrid on a free this summer and Trent Alexander-Arnold reject an extension to join a Spanish club. Talks between the club and Szoboszlai have been ongoing for months, and an agreement is now within reach.

Szoboszlai was Liverpool’s standout performer last season, contributing 13 goals and 12 assists while also filling in at right-back when required. Signed from RB Leipzig for £60m in 2023, he is regarded internally as a potential future club captain.

The extension would give Iraola a firm foundation as he begins reshaping the squad. Winger Victor Munoz has already been confirmed as the new head coach’s first signing, while defender Jeremy Jacquet — whose move from Rennes was arranged in January — is set to arrive. Iraola has also expressed a desire to retain Curtis Jones, who is in the final year of his contract, and plans to hand Harvey Elliott an opportunity following his loan spell at Aston Villa.