YOUTH
Keyrol Figueroa demands first‑team debut at Liverpool
Richard Hughes reported that forward Keyrol Figueroa has set a condition for a new Liverpool contract: a first‑team debut or a loan move. The club confirmed a new deal was offered last week.
Liverpool’s striking options are thin. Hugo Ekitike arrived from Eintracht Frankfurt for £69 million, scored 17 goals, but an Achilles injury will keep the 23‑year‑old out until 2027. Alexander Isak, the 26‑year‑old Swede signed for £125 million, has managed four goals and has missed time with a broken leg and other injuries.
Cody Gakpo may be asked to share the No 9 role, while Andoni Iraola sees Figueroa as a viable backup. The 19‑year‑old was in prolific form for the Liverpool under‑21s and earned a bench spot in Arne Slot’s first team.
Figueroa’s contract expires at the end of the season. Liverpool made a renewal offer in January after the striker joined Federico Pastorello’s P&P Sport Management agency. MLS clubs, Porto and PSV have been linked as potential destinations.
According to El Heraldo, Figueroa’s condition is a first‑team debut; otherwise he prefers a loan. Liverpool must decide whether to integrate him or spend on an external backup striker this summer.