Richard Hughes could ruin Liverpool transfer plan and deny Andoni Iraola reunion

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Liverpool continues to plan options for the future in the transfer window, and while plenty of targets have been outlined, Richard Hughes could impact a possible deal in the next yearAndoni Iraola could be denied a transfer reunion at Liverpool(Image: (Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images))Liverpool's sporting director, Richard Hughes, could scupper Liverpool's chances of landing a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah in an increasingly awkward transfer situation.It comes as the Reds continue to assess market options to improve the wide areas, with Andoni Iraola in need of quality reinforcements in the forward ranks. Considering the exit of Salah brings with it the loss of many memorable moments, goals, assists, and leadership, it's clear that the task for those looking to replace him at Anfield is a monumental one.As it stands, Liverpool is pushing to sign Bradley Barcola as the top target to take on that responsibility, offering quality and experience at the top alongside potential to grow further in the seasons to come.That said, any move for the Frenchman could see him move to the left flank, his current preferred position, which may move someone else like Rio Ngumoha to the right side.It means there would be no direct replacement for Salah on that flank, but it's one that is being considered in the long-term with other options.Bournemouth's Rayan has emerged as a possible target, but considering his move to the Premier League only came about in January, a deal this summer appears extremely unlikely.Rayan in action for Brazil at the World Cup.(Image: Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)That pushes a move toward next summer, which could see the Reds make a move to reunite Iraola with his former player at Anfield.However, any move could be scuppered ahead of time, as Brazilian outlet ge Globo reports that Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal is showing keen interest in Rayan as an option for next year as well.An offer is being prepared by the club, in hopes of tempting Bournemouth into a deal, though a lot can change between now and the coming transfer windows.That said, it's a move that would be steeped in frustration for Liverpool, not least surrounding the potential role of sporting director Hughes in the future.The 47-year-old is set to leave Anfield when his contract comes to an end next summer, after reports emerged that he was keen on trying out a new challenge elsewhere in his career.Other reports claim that the new challenge will be with the Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, in a move that could now impact Liverpool's long-term interest in Rayan by the time that he switches position from Merseyside.While that current interest in the Brazilian may be drawn from the club, and not Hughes at the moment, he is likely to have the final say by the time that he makes his move to Al-Hilal, which means he could have the call on whether a deal for the Reds is scuppered or not.It remains to be seen what could follow in the next year, as plenty can change, but it means Liverpool may already need to put some work in to convince Rayan of making the move early.