Liverpool’s search for fresh talent has taken another interesting turn — and this time, the journey led to Croatia. But what the Reds were reportedly looking for, and who exactly caught their eye, is still not fully clear.
That mystery alone has sparked plenty of curiosity among fans, especially at a time when the squad needs new ideas and new legs. And yes, the January window is just five weeks away… so the timing feels more than a little intentional.
The club’s recruitment team has been under pressure, and a quiet scouting trip in Croatia is not something you see every day.
With defensive issues piling up and concerns across key areas, Liverpool appear to be casting a wide net. The question is: what did they see over the weekend that made the trip worthwhile?
A scouting trip that raised eyebrows
According to reports from Croatia (Croatian outlet Novi List), Liverpool reportedly sent scouts to watch HNK Rijeka’s 5–0 win over rivals Hajduk Split.
Interestingly, the Reds were not the only big name in the stands — clubs like AC Milan, Parma, Sassuolo and FC Twente also joined the talent hunt. It was quite a crowd for a league fixture many don’t watch closely, which only adds more intrigue.
Two midfielders, in particular, seem to have caught attention: Rijeka’s Toni Fruk and Hajduk’s Rokas Pukstas.
Both fit Liverpool’s recent strategy of spotting undervalued profiles before their price rises. And with the Reds clearly trying to rebuild the engine room, the timing makes sense.
Who stole the spotlight and why Liverpool noticed?
Toni Fruk certainly made his name known with a standout performance. The 24-year-old attacking midfielder scored a hat-trick, added an assist, and delivered the type of all-round display that gets scouts scribbling into their notebooks.
With strong stats this season and versatility across attacking roles, the left-footer offers creativity, shots from range and intelligent passing in tight areas.
On the other side, 21-year-old American midfielder Rokas Pukstas — despite being on the losing team — reportedly impressed Liverpool’s representatives. Known for his power, stamina and ability to crash into the box like a late train, he brings a different kind of chaos.
His aerial strength and duel numbers make him a midfielder who could thrive in a high-pressing system. Some even compare his profile to a younger Gini Wijnaldum, but with a little more goal threat.
Both players appear to offer something Liverpool currently lack: consistent midfield goals, physical presence, and transitional power.
And considering Arne Slot’s system still needs the right blend of technique and athleticism, the timing of this scouting mission seems far from random.
What Anfield Home thinks?
Liverpool’s interest in Croatian talents shows a smart and patient approach. The club knows that buying from “secondary” leagues has paid off in the past — sometimes more than splashing cash on Premier League targets.
Both Fruk and Pukstas look like sensible, data-friendly options. They won’t solve everything, but they fit the profile of players who could grow into key contributors.
If Liverpool do move for one of them, it would be a reminder that the club still trusts sharp scouting as much as big spending — and sometimes, that’s exactly how you score the real winners in the transfer market.