It is August 2017 and Liverpool find themselves under siege. Facing a crucial Champions League qualifier against Hoffenheim, a bigger game is going on off the pitch.
Barcelona had targeted Philippe Coutinho, then recognised as the most important and influential player at Anfield. Their attempt to sign him was relentless with emails frequently dropping into the inbox of Michael Edwards, Liverpool’s Sporting Director.
Up and up the figures went, reaching £119million; £82.35m of that figure was guaranteed up front, £36.65m would be forthcoming in add-ons. Edwards never blinked, regardless of Coutinho handing in a transfer request.