Liverpool completes three transactions, signs a deal with Mohamed Salah, and imagines a great summer for Arne Slot.
Arne Slot has a lengthy list of tasks that need to be completed before he arrives in Liverpool. This summer will bring contracts, transfers, and other things. This summer will see a lot of change for Liverpool as Arne Slot is expected to take over for Jürgen Klopp. And there will be a long list of things that need to be worked out when the Feyenoord head coach arrives at the AXA Training Centre for the first time. Even if the departure of Klopp will be somewhat mitigated by the return of players like Michael Edwards and Julian Ward, as well as a few significant FSG additions behind the scenes, life without the German will still require some adjustment.
Liverpool.com examines the potential summer ahead under optimal conditions. The focus lies on three aspects: transfers, contracts, and a smooth coaching transition.
Priority lies in securing a center-back and managing key transfers. With Matip departing and Konaté prone to injuries, Quansah shouldn’t bear excessive responsibility. Additionally, bolstering the midfield and attack seems prudent, especially with potential returns of Bajčetić and Clark seeking more playtime.
Initially, attention must be on reinforcing the defense, ideally with a player capable of succeeding Van Dijk in the future, although finding such talent is challenging.
Critical decisions loom over contract extensions for Salah, Van Dijk, and Alexander-Arnold. Despite Salah’s recent performance dip, he remains a crucial attacker. Van Dijk maintains his status among the world’s top center-backs, while Alexander-Arnold’s prime years lie ahead.
To avoid unnecessary speculation, it would be wise for Liverpool to swiftly address contract extensions this summer. Given their continued significance, extending the contracts of all three players makes logical sense.
Arne Slot’s coaching approach will be introduced promptly. With his assistant, Sipke Hulshoff, joining him at Anfield, and Hulshoff’s resignation from his Netherlands role, they can start immediately rather than waiting until after the European Championship. This is crucial for Slot to implement his methods swiftly. While many Liverpool players will be on international duty or holiday, those present for pre-season training will gain a significant advantage, potentially securing early positions in the team hierarchy.