Liverpool – New manager Arne Slot is set to receive one of Liverpool’s largest ever summer transfer budgets as the club prepares to defend its 20th league title. Work is already underway to identify key Liverpool transfer targets and equip the squad for renewed challenges next season.
The club’s recruitment team, led by sporting director Richard Hughes and FSG president Michael Edwards, has been assessing potential signings for a year. After relatively quiet recent windows—only signing Federico Chiesa and loaning back keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili since Slot’s arrival—Liverpool now has significant resources available. Management recognizes that rivals like Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea, Newcastle, and Aston Villa will strengthen, necessitating a proactive summer.
Priority Liverpool Transfer Targets
The primary focus this summer is clear: a new central striker (No 9) and a left-sided defender are top priorities. Liverpool’s scouting network has been actively evaluating suitable players for months.
Among those admired are Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez. Huijsen reportedly has a £50 million release clause, attracting interest from multiple top clubs. Kerkez, signed previously by Hughes for Bournemouth, is highly rated, but Liverpool is reportedly hesitant about his current high valuation. The aim is to find support for Andy Robertson, not necessarily an immediate replacement.
Striker Search Challenges
The most substantial investment is expected upfront, especially as Darwin Núñez’s time at Anfield could end if a suitable offer arrives. Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak is highly rated by Liverpool, considered one of Europe’s best strikers. However, securing him seems difficult. Newcastle’s likely Champions League qualification strengthens their position to keep Isak, who also has a long contract. A potential price tag exceeding £130 million would require Liverpool to shatter their transfer record.
An alternative Liverpool has monitored is 22-year-old Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike. Yet, an estimated £80 million fee represents a considerable gamble on emerging potential. Still, Liverpool has shown willingness to spend big for the right player, evidenced by their past £111 million bid for Moisés Caicedo.
Budget Flexibility and Potential Sales
There isn’t a fixed budget for Slot; spending will depend on which prime Liverpool transfer targets become available and how much income is generated from player sales.
Several current players could depart. Fringe squad members like Joe Gomez and Kostas Tsimikas might be available. Young winger Ben Doak could attract offers after a successful loan spell. Additionally, Saudi clubs have previously expressed interest in Luis Díaz and are reportedly considering Diogo Jota, although selling multiple key attackers seems unlikely. Should forwards leave, another Hughes signing at Bournemouth, Antoine Semenyo, has also been watched closely by Liverpool’s data team.
Goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher seeks a starting role elsewhere, and Liverpool would likely demand at least £25 million. Harvey Elliott remains valued, but his lack of Premier League starts this season might lead him to consider his options, though Liverpool hopes the talented midfielder will stay and fight for his place.
Abiodun Labi
Culled TelegraphUK
