'We are thin' - Andoni Iraola vows to act after Real Madrid starlet snubs Liverpool

Iraola has promised supporters a flurry of transfer activity before the deadline as he prepares for his first Premier League match away to Newcastle. The Spaniard has taken charge at Anfield looking to close the gap to England's elite following Arne Slot's departure.

However, Iraola has admitted his squad remains noticeably thin as the Reds search for a worthy successor to Mohamed Salah following his premature summer exit. Liverpool have also seen Curtis Jones depart for Inter Milan while working to resolve defensive fitness issues.

To address immediate defensive shortages caused by Joe Gomez's pre-season injury, Liverpool have already secured defender Ronald Araujo on loan from Barcelona. Yet concerns remain over right-back depth given Conor Bradley's ongoing fitness troubles. Addressing squad depth ahead of the deadline, Iraola confirmed that further additions will arrive.

"We will definitely sign some players. Some deals you have to wait until the end," Iraola told Sky Sports. "But the end is the important picture, the one we will have on September 1, because it is true that we are still quite thin."

Liverpool attempted to bolster their attacking line by targeting Madrid forward Endrick. The 20-year-old Brazilian spent last season on loan at Lyon, impressing with eight goals and eight assists in 21 appearances.

However, ESPN reports that Endrick has rejected Liverpool's approaches. Despite facing intense competition under new Los Blancos boss Jose Mourinho, the youngster believes he can force his way into contention at the Bernabeu. Endrick faces a formidable wall of competition in Madrid. Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe are guaranteed starters, while £100 million acquisition Yan Diomande and the injured Rodrygo also feature in Mourinho's vision.

Despite missing out on Endrick, Liverpool must quickly turn their full focus to Sunday's Premier League opener against Newcastle. Off the pitch, Liverpool's recruitment team will work tirelessly ahead of the September 1 transfer deadline. Iraola remains determined to add depth and quality before the window closes.

With the current squad stretched thin, securing versatile attacking cover and defensive reinforcement remains the top priority for the Liverpool boss.