As Arne Slot and Richard Hughes prepare for an active summer transfer window, Liverpool’s plans are beginning to take shape. After evaluating the squad this season, Slot has prioritized gradual tactical adjustments rather than a complete overhaul.
Despite only signing Federico Chiesa last summer for £12m, Slot and Hughes now have a clearer understanding of the team’s needs going into the next window, and recruitment efforts have already started, even as Liverpool leads the Premier League by 13 points.
Goalkeeper Position
Liverpool’s goalkeeper situation may see changes, particularly with the arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia for £29m. Caoimhin Kelleher, who has served well in Alisson Becker’s absence, is in the final year of his contract, and with Mamardashvili increasing competition, Kelleher could be sold, although Liverpool is determined to secure a fair price for him. Additionally, Vitezslav Jaros, whose contract is also near expiry, may leave after spending time on loan in Austria and stepping in for Alisson in a few matches.
Defensive Reinforcements
The defense could see a new addition, particularly at left-back, with Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez being the most frequently linked player. Hughes, who was involved in Kerkez’s transfer to Bournemouth, has detailed knowledge of the Hungarian and could play a key role in bringing him to Anfield. Other left-back options include Rayan Ait-Nouri from Wolves and Miguel Guerrero of Girona.
Midfield Adjustments
Liverpool’s midfield appears stable, with key players like Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai tied to long-term contracts. However, Wataru Endo, who hasn’t started in the Premier League under Slot, could leave, especially after rumors linking him to Marseille. Tyler Morton, recovering from surgery, may also seek a move, with interest from Championship clubs and Bayer Leverkusen.
Forward Line
The forward line could see the most activity, especially regarding Darwin Nunez. Despite interest from the Saudi Pro League earlier this year, Nunez’s future is uncertain as his performance has been inconsistent, scoring just six goals this season. Slot has expressed dissatisfaction with his work rate, and AC Milan and Saudi clubs could revive their interest in the summer. Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz have also been linked with moves, with Diaz reportedly attracting interest from Barcelona, although Liverpool seems unconcerned about his departure. Additionally, Liverpool has been linked with Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, who has scored 19 goals this season and could be a potential target if his contract situation evolves.
Contract Situations
Slot recently stated that key contract situations, particularly for Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, will influence Liverpool’s summer decisions. Salah has been vocal about frustrations regarding his contract, and while van Dijk and Alexander-Arnold have kept quiet on their futures, their situations will be crucial in shaping Liverpool’s strategy for the upcoming window.
