Barcola deal sealed as Liverpool host Forest, fans salute Keegan

Anfield welcomed the start of the Premier League fixture at 12.30pm BST with Liverpool and Nottingham Forest taking the field. The Reds were dressed in their traditional all‑red kit, while Forest appeared in a third‑choice shirt that bore a striking resemblance to a recent Manchester City number. Principal owner John Henry and newly appointed vice‑chairman Amit Bhatia watched from the stand as the stadium’s anthem rang out.

Before the first whistle, the crowd gathered to honour the late Kevin Keegan, a legend of Bill Shankly’s second great side. A mosaic on the Kop displayed the name “KEVIN 7” and supporters joined in a chorus of “One Kevin Keegan”, echoing the affection still felt for the former star who had recently passed away.

Amid the ceremony, Liverpool confirmed the completion of a £123 million transfer for Bradley Barcola, a signing that underscores the club’s continued investment in attacking talent. The deal, announced during the live updates, adds a high‑profile name to Jurgen Klopp’s squad.

Meanwhile, attention turned to Nottingham Forest’s potential activity in the market. David Ornstein of the Athletic reported that the club could be close to securing 19‑year‑old midfielder Harrison Armstrong from Everton for a reported £40 million. Forest’s recent cash inflow, generated by the sale of Elliot Anderson to Manchester City, suggests they have the financial backing to pursue such a move, keeping the young prospect in the spotlight as a possible addition to their midfield.