Does Liverpool FC's James Milner pursuit show a change in approach from FSG?

Reds owners rejected idea of 'short-term quick fixes' three years ago, but has their stance softened?.

It also gave an insight into Fenway Sports Group’s long-term strategy, and in particular, its approach to the transfer market.

“Spending is not merely about buying talent,” Henry wrote. “Our ambitions do not lie in cementing a mid-table place with expensive, short-term quick fixes that will only contribute for a couple of years.

“It will not be easy, it will not be perfect, but there is a clear vision at work.

“We will build and grow from within, buy prudently and cleverly and never again waste resources on inflated transfer fees and unrealistic wages. We have no fear of spending and competing with the very best, but we will not overpay for players.”

If the strategy is not working, this summer may be the time to revise it

It looks, in hindsight, a bold move by FSG, to effectively pen an apology for not signing Clint Dempsey. But it was also a shrewd move; by outlining their strategy, they were able to buy a bit of time and goodwill from fans – ‘stick with us, kids, we’ve got a plan.’

Their words from three years ago, though, are worth revisiting now. After all, if the “strategy” is not working, then this may be the summer to revise it.

Doubts may still exist as to Rodgers’ future as manager, with significant meetings taking place with chairman Tom Werner this week, but that hasn’t stopped Liverpool pressing on with plans to strengthen their squad.

James Milner, the England midfielder, looks set to become the first signing of the summer. And it is that pursuit, above others, which suggests FSG are preparing to relax their stance when it comes to “expensive, short-term quick fixes.”

Milner’s age (29) and wages (believed to be well in excess of £100,000 a week) would both appear to go against FSG’s previous dealings, but there appears to be an acceptance that Liverpool need more than just young footballers with potential and re-sale value, if they are to compete at the level they are expected to.

The right move? Plenty would argue ‘yes’ – even if Milner would not necessarily be the player they would choose to change their approach for.

Mistakes have been made too frequently, for too long by Liverpool in the transfer market. It is time that the errors stopped.

And if a little more pragmatism – and maybe, whisper it, even a little more short-termism – helps reduce those errors, then no Red should argue.