Jamie Carragher has urged Liverpool to make significant investments in their attack this summer following their 2-1 Carabao Cup final defeat to Newcastle.

The Reds struggled to break down a resilient Newcastle side, with Mohamed Salah unable to inspire a comeback.

Despite the loss, Carragher defended Salah and shifted the focus to the need for reinforcements in the squad.

Newcastle’s Triumph and Liverpool’s Struggles

Newcastle secured their first domestic trophy in 70 years with goals from Dan Burn and Alexander Isak, while Federico Chiesa’s late strike proved insufficient for Liverpool.

Salah had a quiet game, but Carragher pointed to the lack of impact from other attackers like Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota, Darwin Nunez, and Cody Gakpo as the real issue.

“It was probably one of the worst performances I’ve seen from Liverpool in a cup final,” Carragher said on Sky Sports. “But they’ve given so much this season and they’ve lost one league game. It’s hard to be too critical, but it has shone a light on areas where Liverpool still need to improve.”

Carragher’s Defense of Salah

Carragher argued that Salah has been unfairly criticized, especially after facing top defenders like PSG’s Nuno Mendes in recent games.

He emphasized that Salah lacks the support he once had from players like Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino during Jurgen Klopp’s tenure.

“He doesn’t get help from the other attackers. This isn’t like under Jurgen Klopp where [Sadio] Mane or [Roberto] Firmino could bail them out of trouble. The other attackers Liverpool have got are good players, but they’re not great players,” Carragher explained.

A Call for New Signings

Carragher believes Liverpool must sign at least two top-quality attackers this summer to ease the burden on Salah and elevate the team’s attacking threat. “They’ve relied on him too much, so I don’t want to see too much criticism of Mo Salah over this last week. What it’s shone a light on is that Liverpool need to go out and buy two attackers – not as squad players, but possibly to play alongside Mo Salah, hopefully, next season.”

Despite Federico Chiesa’s arrival last summer, his contributions have been modest, with just two goals and two assists in 11 appearances.

Carragher’s comments highlight the need for Liverpool to address their attacking depth if they are to compete for major trophies.

Salah’s Contract Situation

Salah’s future at Liverpool remains uncertain, with his contract set to expire at the end of the season.

The Egyptian has been in sensational form, scoring 32 goals and providing 22 assists in all competitions.

Losing him would leave a massive void in Liverpool’s attack, making it crucial for the club to either secure his future or find a suitable replacement.

While Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final defeat was disappointing, Carragher remains optimistic about the team’s potential. “I’ve been excited thinking it looks like Liverpool are going to win the league, and there is still lots to improve – and I think they will in the summer.”

As the season progresses, Liverpool’s focus will be on strengthening their squad and ensuring they remain competitive in both domestic and European competitions.

With the right additions, they could return stronger next season and challenge for silverware once again.

The future of French forward Kolo Muani is one of the most intriguing storylines heading into the summer transfer window.

Currently on loan at Juventus from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Muani has struggled to find consistent form, sparking speculation about where he’ll play next season.

With Juventus, PSG, and Premier League clubs all weighing their options, the 25-year-old’s next move remains uncertain.

Juventus’ Dilemma: To Keep or Let Go?

Juventus are in a period of transition, with both managerial and squad uncertainties shaping their summer plans.

The club’s qualification for the Champions League could play a key role in their decision-making. If they secure a top-four finish, they may push to retain Muani, but his recent dip in form has raised doubts.

As Calciomercato reports, “The Frenchman hasn’t scored for a month, he has stopped and shows no signs of recovery.”

Despite this, Juventus’ sporting director sees Muani as a “top-level profile” and is reportedly keen to secure another loan deal.

However, PSG have different plans. The French giants are looking to sell Muani outright to maximize their financial return, rather than extending his stay in Turin.

PSG’s Stance: A Sale, Not a Loan

PSG’s position is clear they want to cash in on Muani and reinvest in their squad. The club’s summer plans include a major overhaul of their attack, and Muani’s sale could help fund new signings.

As Calciomercato notes, “The ambition of the French is to immediately sell the striker and not necessarily to Juve, to whom the player was kindly loaned with a very clear aim. That of re-evaluating him and putting him on display for next summer.”

Muani’s time at Juventus has been a mixed bag. While he’s enjoyed regular playing time, he hasn’t rediscovered the form that made him one of Europe’s most promising forwards.

If he is to stay in Turin, it will likely depend on Juventus securing Champions League football and presenting a strong long-term project.

Premier League Interest: Newcastle in the Mix

The Premier League could be a viable destination for Muani, with Newcastle United emerging as a potential suitor.

The Magpies’ potential sale of Alexander Isak could create an opening for Muani to fill. As the report highlights, “Kolo Muani has a lot of market in the Premier League, above all Newcastle who can open the waltz of the strikers, with the fate of Isak yet to be discovered.”

Muani’s pace and versatility make him an attractive option for English clubs, but his inconsistent form raises questions about whether he can command a starting role at a top Premier League side.

Newcastle fans might view him as an exciting addition, but his lack of goals could be a concern, especially if Isak departs.

The debate surrounding Muani centers on whether he’s worth a long-term investment. His speed and movement offer something unique, but his recent struggles in front of goal are a red flag.

For Juventus, pairing him with a proven finisher like Victor Osimhen could be the solution, but the club may also consider a complete overhaul of their attack.

For Newcastle, Muani’s physicality and ability to stretch defences could fit well into Eddie Howe’s system.

However, fans might prefer a more established striker if Isak leaves. Ultimately, Muani’s performances in the final months of the season could determine his next destination.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Kolo Muani’s future remains up in the air. Will he stay at Juventus, return to PSG, or make a move to the Premier League?

His next destination will depend on a combination of form, finances, and the ambitions of the clubs involved. One thing is certain Muani’s transfer saga will be one to watch.

According to a report from SPORT, Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has begun laying the groundwork for a possible move to sign Liverpool winger Luis Diaz.

The club is actively working on financial plans and calculations to determine how they can afford the transfer.

However, securing Diaz won’t be easy, as Barcelona must first generate significant funds before making an official approach.

Challenges Ahead
The estimated cost of signing the Colombian star is between €70-75 million, meaning Barcelona need to free up at least €30 million in their wage structure to make the deal viable.

To raise the necessary funds, the club is exploring various options, including player sales and percentage deals involving players not currently in the first-team setup.

Barcelona’s midfield is one area where they could consider a major sale if the right offer comes in. While the squad has plenty of midfield options, only Pedri is considered untouchable.

In defense, the club is being cautious about making changes, but the futures of Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen, and Ronald Araujo remain uncertain. Araujo, in particular, would only be allowed to leave if he personally requests a transfer.

Diaz’s Interest in Barcelona
On Diaz’s side, the player is reportedly keen on joining Barcelona. After spending four seasons in England, he is excited about the possibility of playing for the Blaugrana.

Deco has already held informal talks with Diaz’s representatives to express Barcelona’s interest.

However, due to financial restrictions under La Liga’s fair play rules, the club cannot make any formal moves at this stage.

One potential advantage for Barcelona is Diaz’s contract situation. His current deal with Liverpool runs until 2027, but by 2026, the English club’s leverage in negotiations would diminish. If Liverpool don’t sell him next summer, they risk losing out on a significant transfer fee the following year.

That said, if Barcelona fail to show serious interest, Diaz might consider extending his stay at Anfield instead.

While Barcelona are keen on bringing Diaz to Camp Nou, financial hurdles and strategic planning will play a crucial role in determining whether the transfer materializes.