Liverpool could now have the chance to make amends for missing out on Martin Zubimendi and sign the perfect alternative from Barcelona. 

With every passing day, Liverpool are running out of time to make Richard Hughes' first transfer period as the club's sporting director a successful one.

So far Hughes has failed to land the signature of Martin Zubimendi, who was identified as the club's ideal no.6 target and he is also currently stalling to secure a deal for Giorgi Mamardashvili.

But it's not the end of the world. Liverpool may not have long but there is still time for Hughes to redeem himself and sign a player who could be the ideal fit for Arne Slot's team.

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Why Liverpool could target Ilkay Gundogan

At this moment in time with so little time left in the transfer window, it's becoming increasingly clear that Liverpool are not going to find their long-term solution for the no.6 role this summer.

However, they must come up with a temporary solution in the meantime, with Slot needing more than just one viable option in Ryan Gravenberch for that position.

The Dutchman clearly doesn't rate Wataru Endo for the role, which is why Liverpool must do everything in order to bolster Slot's squad and find him another alternative solution.

For that there might be no better option than Ilkay Gundogan, who has just become available on the market, according to Fabrizio Romano with Barcelona open to selling the German international.

At 33 years old, Gundogan will not be considered a long-term option by any stretch of the imagination, but for a season or two he could be stupendous addition.

The former Manchester City midfielder would bring a wealth of experience to the team and provide much needed stability in midfield. He is tailor-made for Slot's football and this is a transfer Hughes should look to complete with Barcelona before the end of the window.