Liverpool to dodge 'tax' on south American signings after 'big' move confirmed - Expert

Liverpool appoint Andrii Fedchenkov as head of scouting to tap South American talent before European clubs inflate prices.

Liverpool have confirmed the appointment of Andrii Fedchenkov as their new head of scouting operations, starting in January after his contract with Flamengo expires in December. The 30-year-old Ukrainian joins as part of a behind-the-scenes overhaul at Anfield following Richard Hughes' departure as sporting director.

Former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness believes Fedchenkov's arrival signals Liverpool's strategy to identify young South American talent early and sign them before European clubs drive up their market value. Wyness told Football Insider that Fedchenkov's experience at Flamengo and knowledge of the South American pipeline will help Liverpool avoid paying premium prices for established players. "The idea is to try and get that South American talent before it comes across to Europe and then you pay the euro tax on it," Wyness explained.

The appointment comes as Liverpool also prepare to pursue Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen next summer as a long-term replacement for Alisson, though they face competition from Real Madrid and other European elite clubs.