Liverpool’s Transfer Plans: Potential Signings and Departures.
Arne Slot has focused on evolution rather than revolution since taking over at Anfield, making tactical tweaks and positional shifts rather than sweeping changes. He has frequently acknowledged the quality of the squad inherited from Jurgen Klopp.
The only addition last summer was Federico Chiesa, who arrived from Juventus for a bargain £12m after Martin Zubimendi chose to stay at Real Sociedad. Consequently, no alternative was pursued, and Ryan Gravenberch has excelled in a deep-lying midfield role under Slot.
However, Slot admitted last month that he and sporting director Richard Hughes now have a clearer understanding of what the squad requires. Despite leading the Premier League by a commanding 13 points, he stated that recruitment efforts are ongoing behind the scenes.
He emphasized that every position is being evaluated and confirmed that a thorough assessment of the squad has shaped their transfer strategy, though he refrained from specifying target positions.
A recent pre-tax loss of £57m highlights the financial strain of missing out on the Champions League. However, with their return to an expanded and more lucrative European Cup, Liverpool’s financial situation is set to improve. Having spent only £12m on transfers in the past 18 months, the club is expected to have significant flexibility in the summer market.
Goalkeeping Decisions
The goalkeeping department is set for changes with the arrival of £29m signing Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia. This development raises questions about Caoimhin Kelleher’s future, as he enters the final year of his contract. Liverpool previously rejected offers for the Irishman, but with increased competition from Mamardashvili, he may seek a new challenge. The club remains firm on not selling him below their valuation.
Vitezslav Jaros, whose contract is nearing expiration, may also depart as a free agent. He played a crucial role in victories against Crystal Palace and Brighton but has yet to secure a long-term future at Anfield. His successful loan spell with Sturm Graz, where he won a league and cup double, has bolstered his reputation, yet his future remains uncertain.
Defensive Targets
Liverpool have been frequently linked with left-backs, particularly Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez. Hughes, having previously recruited Kerkez for Bournemouth, is well-versed in the Hungarian’s strengths, weaknesses, and contract details. This familiarity could give Liverpool an advantage should they pursue him. Additionally, Wolves’ Rayan Ait-Nouri and Girona’s Miguel Guerrero have also been mentioned as potential targets.
Stability in Midfield
The midfield appears to be the most stable department regarding potential summer movements. Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai are still early into their long-term contracts, while Curtis Jones extended his deal in November 2022.
Wataru Endo has yet to start a Premier League match under Slot, and with interest from Marseille last summer, his future remains uncertain. Harvey Elliott has been linked with Brighton and Borussia Dortmund but has repeatedly dismissed any exit speculation. Meanwhile, Tyler Morton, recovering from shoulder surgery, is expected to seek a move this summer after attracting interest from Championship clubs and Bayer Leverkusen last year.
Uncertainty in Attack
The forward line poses the most intrigue. Liverpool rejected initial Saudi Pro League interest in Darwin Nunez in January, prioritizing squad stability for their title push. However, as he approaches his third season at the club, doubts persist. With just six goals this term and failing to surpass last season’s tally of 18, Nunez has yet to fully convince. Slot recently expressed disappointment with his work rate following a costly miss against Aston Villa, and his lack of impact during Diogo Jota’s four-month absence raises further questions. AC Milan and Saudi clubs may reignite their interest this summer.
Jota remains a player Slot trusts in the No.9 role but has struggled with fitness issues, featuring for only 821 minutes out of a possible 2520. Meanwhile, Luis Diaz continues to be linked with Barcelona in Spanish media, though Liverpool seem unconcerned about an imminent departure.
Newcastle’s Alexander Isak has been speculated as a potential target. With 19 goals this season and yet to sign a new contract, he earns £140,000 per week—a wage Liverpool would likely find manageable if they decide to make a formal approach.
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Key Contract Decisions
Slot acknowledged that the contract situations of Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold will significantly influence Liverpool’s summer transfer activity. He stressed that while transfer planning is ongoing, his primary focus remains on the current squad.
Salah expressed frustration in November about not receiving a contract offer and confirmed in January that there was no update on negotiations. He has since remained tight-lipped on the matter. Van Dijk has similarly avoided discussions on his long-term future, suggesting that both players wish to avoid distractions during a critical stage of the season. Alexander-Arnold has not publicly addressed his contract situation since September.
As Liverpool approach the summer window, these contract renewals and potential squad reinforcements will be crucial in shaping the club’s direction for the upcoming season.
Liverpool’s Transfer Plans: Potential Signings and Departures.
