Liverpool manager Arne Slot is reportedly eager for a reunion with his former Feyenoord protege this summer, as reports emerge of the player favouring a move to Anfield over his other admirers, including Manchester United.
Sporting Director Richard Hughes has been highly proactive this transfer window, bolstering Slot’s title-winning side. The Reds have already invested over £180m on the likes of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Armin Pecsi, and Freddie Woodman. With the departures of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen and Darwin Nunez set for the exit, attention has turned to securing a new centre-back and striker. However, sources suggest that Slot is also keen to strengthen his midfield.
Last season, Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister were mainstays in Liverpool’s midfield. While Wirtz is seen as enhancing the attacking thrust and contest for a starting berth with Dominik Szoboszlai, the Dutch tactician apparently seeks additional depth or competition to support the deeper-lying positions held by Curtis Jones and Wataru Endo.
Benfica’s Orkun Kokcu has emerged as Slot’s top choice for bolstering the midfield. Manchester United, Tottenham, and Inter Milan are also pursuing the 24-year-old. However, reports indicate the Portuguese club would entertain offers in the region of €40m (£34m) following Kokcu’s impressive tally of 12 goals and eight assists last season, aided by further accomplishments in the Club World Cup.
Kokcu, who once hailed Slot as “the best coach in the world” during their time at Feyenoord, appears keen on a Merseyside reunion. The Turkish international reportedly prioritises a switch to Liverpool over potential moves to his homeland’s big names, including Galatasaray, Fenerbahce, and Besiktas. These destinations are deemed “less realistic”, with insiders revealing that a Premier League move remains Kokcu’s primary aim.
Liverpool had the opportunity to secure Martin Zubimendi’s services had he not opted for Arsenal. The newly-minted Gunner expressed a strong affinity for Arsenal’s playing style and ambition in his introductory press release.
In this evolving landscape, Liverpool look poised to make strategic additions to their squad, with Slot’s desired reunion with Kokcu potentially marking a significant step forward.
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