Liverpool manager Arne Slot is reportedly urging the club’s leadership to target Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong in the upcoming transfer window.
The Reds have made an impressive start to the Premier League season, sitting four points ahead of second-placed Chelsea with a game in hand. Slot, who succeeded Jurgen Klopp after leaving Feyenoord, couldn’t have asked for a better beginning to his reign at Anfield.
Klopp left the team in good shape, particularly after a summer overhaul of the midfield. However, despite strong performances, including topping their Champions League group, Slot believes there are still areas for improvement. Spanish reports suggest he has recommended de Jong as a potential addition to the squad.
The Dutch international has faced injury issues and a drop in form over the past year, and Barcelona seems willing to part ways with him for the right price. De Jong’s situation has reportedly become a point of frustration for Barcelona’s coach, Hansi Flick, who has criticized his current lack of readiness and primarily used him as a substitute this season.
With de Jong being one of Barcelona’s highest-paid players and his contract running until 2026, the club may look to sell him to avoid losing him on a free transfer. Although Manchester City, Bayern Munich, and PSG have withdrawn their interest, Slot is confident that de Jong can return to his best form.
Reports indicate that Slot has urged Liverpool’s board to open talks for a potential January move, but the club is hesitant to pay a significant fee. Liverpool hopes to secure de Jong for around €50 million (£41 million) or possibly less, aiming to convince him that a move to Anfield is the right step for his career.
Meanwhile, former Liverpool player Jermaine Pennant has pointed out that, unlike Manchester City, who have been impacted by Rodri’s injury, Liverpool is less reliant on a single player to drive their success.
