Richard Hughes once tried to hire a current outsider for the Liverpool job

Liverpool's search for a new manager to replace the outgoing Jurgen Klopp may have taken a fresh twist since the appointment of Richard Hughes as the club's new sporting director.

While it seems practically a given that Bayer Leverkusen's Xabi Alonso and Sporting Lisbon's Ruben Amorim are top of the list, one name that could come to the fore now is that of Brighton and Hove Albion's Roberto De Zerbi.

According to The Mail, Hughes is a known admirer of the Italian coach and has a longstanding affinity for his coaching style.

Hughes, who grew up playing in the Atalanta academy (coincidentally the next opponent for Liverpool in the Europa League), faced De Zerbi numerous times in youth football and knows his profile well.

Previous approach

In his previous role at Bournemouth, Hughes is believed to have made a determined attempt to secure De Zerbi's services when the managerial position became vacant following Scott Parker's departure in August 2022.

However, despite Hughes's best efforts, the potential move to Bournemouth was thwarted by ownership complications, leaving the Italian coach beyond reach at the time.

Instead, the club appointed Gary O'Neil and De Zerbi ended up further down the South Coast in Brighton.

Nevertheless, Hughes's admiration for the 44-year-old has endured, and his appointment at Liverpool has reignited speculation about a potential reunion between the two.

Attacking football

De Zerbi, who has consistently been part of the second group of favourites (alongside the likes of Julian Nagelsmann, Hansi Flick and Pep Lijnders) linked with Liverpool job, remains a man in demand and is also believed to be on Bayern Munich's shortlist, as well as several Italian sides.

His tactical acumen and commitment to high-pressing, attacking football align closely with Liverpool's ethos, making him an appealing candidate.

Now, with Hughes through the door, De Zerbi's candidacy could now have an advocate from within as the Reds seek to identify the ideal candidate to lead the club forward.