Joe Hardy transfer is Michael Edwards money spinning genius

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 29: Fans make their way to the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield on December 29, 2019 in Liverpool, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 29: Fans make their way to the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield on December 29, 2019 in Liverpool, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Liverpool are consolidating their reputation as leaders in the transfer market as they confirm the signing of Joe Hardy, another Michael Edwards masterclass.

During the Liverpool 1-0 victory over Everton in the FA Cup yesterday the commentators were praising the Reds in the transfer market for the canny signing of Takumi Minamino. Today they have reinforced their reputation with the signing of Joe Hardy from Brentford – another example of Michael Edwards genius.

Brentford announced on their website today that Joe Hardy will leave their B side and head to Anfield. The 21-year-old will be unknown to fans but he they will relieved to so know he has 40 goals to his name so far in his career.

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This transfer smacks of a Michael Edwards money spinning masterclass; the club picking up young, undervalued talent and developing them into quality players.

This strategy has been excellent for the club in recent years and can help the manager in one of two ways.

Hardy could develop into a genuine contender for first team football like Andrew Robertson or the increasingly impressive Harvey Elliott – low-key signings that have worked out spectacularly well for Jurgen Klopp.

The other way Hardy’s move cold develop is that he will spend a year or two at the club, develop, have his talent showcased in the Under-23’s side and then sold for a large profit.

The poster boy of that transfer strategy is Dominic Solanke who the club flipped for a £15 million+ profit in just 18 months at Anfield.

Joe Hardy is expected to replace Rhian Brewster in the Under-23’s set up with the England youngster close to agreeing a loan move to Swansea.