A major Liverpool transfer update has surfaced concerning the club’s summer activities, reported by Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth.
Last summer, the Reds concentrated exclusively on rebuilding their midfield. They signed Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo, and Ryan Gravenberch to strengthen this area.
Now, with Jurgen Klopp’s departure and the appointment of Arne Slot as his successor, the Dutch manager will aim to target players who fit his system and plans, while also addressing other areas of the squad.
Liverpool appear proactive since the arrivals of Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes, with numerous players being linked to Anfield.
Among these is Benfica centre-back Antonio Silva. The Reds are reportedly looking to outmaneuver Manchester United in securing the highly-rated young defender as a replacement for Joel Matip.
Leeds United winger Crysencio Summerville remains a significant target for Liverpool in the upcoming summer transfer window. Summerville has been instrumental in Leeds’ journey to the Championship playoff final against Southampton and earned the Player of the Season award in the Championship.
Additionally, Liverpool are believed to have dispatched scouts to observe Federico Chiesa during his recent matches for Juventus. In the same scouting mission, they also watched Teun Koopmeiners, a standout performer for Atalanta this season, who has impressed with 12 goals and five assists in Serie A.
Dharmesh Sheth Makes Liverpool Transfer Claim
In an interview with GiveMeSport, Sheth stated that Liverpool will focus on acquiring a new centre-back during the summer transfer window, as Michael Edwards considers this a crucial position to strengthen.
“I think Liverpool with regard to their squad and the number of youngsters that have been blooded during the season by Jurgen Klopp is only going to help the new manager Arne Slot when he does come in.
“But looking at it from the outset, I think centre-back will be a huge priority for Liverpool going forward in the summer transfer window.”
This is encouraging news for Liverpool, as failing to secure at least one new centre-back this summer would be nearly negligent by the club.
With Matip departing on a free transfer after eight years at Anfield, the defensive depth at Slot’s disposal is immediately reduced. Additionally, Ibrahima Konate’s recurring injuries remain a concern, as the Frenchman struggles to maintain fitness over extended periods.
Virgil van Dijk, turning 33 this summer, won’t be at his peak forever, while Jarell Quansah is still developing and not yet ready to start regularly for a club of Liverpool’s stature.
A player like Benfica’s Silva would be an ideal addition. The 20-year-old has started 29 Primeira Liga games for Benfica this season, making him a strong immediate option as well as a long-term investment.
Similarly, Sporting CP’s Goncalo Inacio would be a brilliant acquisition, having been pivotal in his team’s league title win in 2023/24 and boasting an 89.3% pass completion rate, which aligns well with Slot’s style of play.
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