There are gradual signs that Andoni Iraola is beginning to make his mark at Liverpool. Whilst last weekend's 0-0 draw against Fulham was, as the manager even admitted, a backwards step, victory over Tottenham in the Carabao Cup has since highlighted several promising signs.

The Reds are far from the finished product, but they are still crucially a recognisable product.

There was an intensity against Spurs last seen in Arne Slot's first season at the club, which ended in a Premier League title. Young Lewis Koumas was reminiscent of Adam Lallana in Jurgen Klopp's first season at the club with how he pressed.

Meanwhile, Trey Nyoni and James McConnel also impressed. Unlike last season, there was a refreshing trust in the youth from within the Anfield technical area.

There's still plenty more to come and that includes in the transfer market. Liverpool left it late to welcome Bradley Barcola, but eventually did get their man in a stunning £120m deal.

Although a statement move, it's unlikely to be their last and those at Anfield already have their sights set on signing a Premier League rival in a shock move.

Liverpool officials complete checks on Estevao

Those at Anfield are far from done with attacking signings. Football FanCast sources understand that Liverpool have contacted the representatives of Estevao Willian and are attempting to convince the winger to ditch contract talks at Chelsea.

The Brazilian's current deal doesn't expire until 2033, but the Blues are trying to tie him down on better terms, according to Fabrizio Romano. Those at Anfield are attempting to intervene before that new deal comes into play, however, and have already sent their scouts to watch him in action.

For their part, Chelsea are not interested in selling their young star and have reportedly valued him at more than £100m. That would make him the fourth Liverpool signing worth more than £100m in the last two years, highlighting how much they've been willing to splash the cash recently.

BlueCo are reportedly relaxed about the situation, though are keen to offer their young star new terms. And that's good news for Xabi Alonso. There's still plenty more to come from Estevao, who was involved in 12 goals in all competitions during his debut season last time out.

The difficult part in any negotiations could come down to playing time. As things stand, Estevao is unlikely to break apart a new-look front three of Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro and Morgan Rogers, who are firing on all cylinders. And given that all of those stars are under 25 years old, that may not change anytime soon.

It's easy to see why Liverpool have looked towards Estevao, though. The young winger could break into their best side if rumours re-emerge over Cody Gakpo's future. The Chelsea man would be the perfect alternative out wide.

Over the last 12 months, he's scored against the likes of Barcelona and even Liverpool - making his mark in the big games and earning plenty of praise along the way.

Former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca went as far as dubbing Estevao 'special' last season, telling reporters: "The good thing about Estevao is that we don't need to be worried about that.

"He's very humble, he's very polite, he wants to work hard. He also has a fantastic family; they are very close to him. For me, personally, he's fantastic because he's a special player, but you don't have to be worried."

Whether Liverpool can pry a 'special' talent away from Chelsea remains the big question. It would certainly be an impressive coup.