Arne Slot Could Fully Unleash Jurgen Klopp’s Best Parting Gifts for Liverpool in the 2024/25 Season
Liverpool are aiming to secure a defensive midfielder before the transfer deadline arrives, indicating that Richard Hughes and Arne Slot could face a hectic few weeks on the phone.
In 2023, Liverpool overhauled their midfield, with Jurgen Klopp guiding his team back on track following the arrival of four new midfielders during the summer. Despite these changes, it seems the squad may not be fully complete yet.
According to a recent report by The Athletic, Liverpool have prioritised acquiring a holding midfielder before the transfer window closes on August 30.
The club have identified a target playing outside of the Premier League, though the specifics of this player are yet to be confirmed.
Arne Slot is in need of a top-tier option at the base of his midfield. Adding a dynamic player would not only strengthen the squad but could also enhance the performance of one of Liverpool’s standout players from the previous season.
Alexis Mac Allister, who transferred to Liverpool from Brighton just over a year ago for a fee of $45 million (£35 million/€41 million), made a notable impact in his debut season, being a contender for the club’s Player of the Season award. Throughout much of the season, he was positioned as a solitary number six.
This setup was effective at times, but many believe Mac Allister could perform even better with a more combative partner alongside him, which would give him more freedom to advance.
At Brighton, he had Moises Caicedo providing additional protection and covering more ground. Similarly, when Wataru Endo was in peak form last year, Liverpool benefited from a similar setup.
Recent indications suggest that Endo might play a reduced role in the 2024/25 season. Introducing a younger, more dynamic, and technically skilled number six could greatly enhance Liverpool’s midfield.
Although this strategy has always been relevant, the challenge has been finding a suitable candidate. While the financial resources are available, the right profile has been elusive.
However, this might be changing. If Liverpool can secure an upgrade to strengthen the midfield’s base, Mac Allister would be able to concentrate on his strengths. Although he is capable in the number six role, he would benefit significantly from additional support.
Jurgen Klopp was responsible for Mac Allister’s move to Anfield, and the revamped squad provided a solid foundation thanks to the previous summer’s efforts.
Over the past year, Mac Allister has proven to be the most impactful addition, and it will be up to the new manager, Slot, to fully unleash his potential.
In other Liverpool news, Liverpool Want to Sell Player Arne Slot is Seemingly Keen to Retain at Anfield