Arne Slot’s Next Top Priorities at Liverpool Revealed After the Closure of Transfer Window

George Priestman examines the next priorities for Liverpool following the closure of the transfer window.

With Liverpool starting the season in impressive form, the topic of transfers isn’t at the forefront of discussions after securing three consecutive wins. However, there are still a few key issues that will need to be addressed in the coming months.

Arne Slot has smoothly taken over from Jurgen Klopp, and the 3-0 victory at Old Trafford was an ideal way to win over the supporters. Despite only one summer addition to the squad, some fans had hoped for more reinforcements to ensure they could compete this season. While the team seems to be on track, the need for further additions may come up again in January.

Additionally, there are contract negotiations, squad roles, and other matters that Slot and the club will need to tackle moving forward. With the international break upon us, it’s a fitting time to examine the issues that require attention in both the short and long term.

Contract Situations for Van Dijk, Salah and Alexander-Arnold

Liverpool fans are growing increasingly concerned about the future of three key players—Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold—since all are entering the final year of their contracts.

Van Dijk and Salah have recently addressed questions from Sky Sports, highlighting the urgency of securing their long-term futures, which is just as crucial as identifying their eventual replacements.

While both Van Dijk and Salah are in their 30s, their physical condition suggests they could continue performing at the highest level for several more seasons.

The players, however, will have their own decisions to make. They might be considering one last career move or evaluating how far Slot can take the team after their strong start. Only time will tell. With the transfer window closed, contract negotiations are likely to commence soon.

Is Ryan Gravenberch the Long-term Option in Midfield?

After missing out on Martin Zubimendi, Slot chose Ryan Gravenberch to take on the deep-lying midfielder role this season. Klopp hadn’t deployed him in that position before, as Wataru Endo was the primary option last season.

Gravenberch has made an impressive start, forming a solid partnership with Alexis Mac Allister. His performances suggest he’s a good fit for the role, and he’s expected to improve further as he gains more experience.

The club may reconsider pursuing Zubimendi in January or even next summer, depending on how the season unfolds.

There are also those who believe Stefan Bajcetic could eventually fill that position long-term, and it will be interesting to track his progress during his loan spell with Pep Lijnders at RB Salzburg.

What Happens with Alisson, Kelleher and Mamardashvili?

With the signing of Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia, the club now have three top-tier goalkeepers on their roster. Mamardashvili will stay in Spain until the season ends, but he is expected to join the first-team squad next summer.

Given his ability and current form, he will aim for the starting goalkeeper role, though that might be a tough challenge.

Alisson still has several years left on his contract and is reportedly committed to staying until then.

Meanwhile, Caoimhin Kelleher’s future remains uncertain, and the club will need to address the situation internally to keep all three players satisfied.

There has been interest in the Irish keeper, and he may seek a starting position elsewhere if the other two are to remain in the squad.

However, questions linger: Could Alisson depart? Will Mamardashvili be loaned out for another season? These issues will need to be resolved.

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