Liverpool`s ownership group, FSG, is actively preparing for Arne Slot`s second season at the helm, showing significant ambition this summer. While Jurgen Klopp left behind a squad that achieved great success in his final years, Slot is reshaping the team with key additions. Despite recent league success, improvements are needed for cup competitions, making squad depth a clear priority.
The transfer market is being aggressively pursued by Liverpool, aiming to provide Slot with the necessary reinforcements.
Liverpool`s Summer Transfer Plans
Liverpool have already made a significant move by securing the services of rapid full-back Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen, addressing the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid.
Discussions are also reportedly advanced regarding Milos Kerkez of Bournemouth, who is seen as a potential long-term successor to Andy Robertson at left-back.
With Mohamed Salah extending his contract, attention is now turning to the left side of the attack, especially given reports linking Luis Diaz with a transfer to the Saudi Pro League.
Lengthy and complex negotiations are underway with Bayer Leverkusen for Florian Wirtz. FSG is reportedly willing to make a British-record bid of £118m for the world-class playmaker, who would likely occupy the number ten role.
Should Diaz depart, Liverpool are also reportedly interested in Newcastle United`s Anthony Gordon, who could command a fee around £80m to return to Merseyside.
However, despite the potential fee for Gordon, he may not automatically secure a starting spot in Slot`s lineup, particularly given the impressive form of Cody Gakpo.
Indeed, Cody Gakpo has enjoyed a stunning season for Liverpool.
Liverpool Have Found a Gem in Cody Gakpo
Signed from PSV Eindhoven for £35m in January 2023 after a strong World Cup showing, Cody Gakpo`s time at Liverpool hasn`t always been straightforward. His initial half-season coincided with a period of turbulence for the team, although he still showed flashes of his ability.
Following a 2023/24 campaign where his best position was debated due to Klopp utilising him across various roles, Gakpo has truly found his rhythm under Slot, delivering his most productive season to date.
| Season | Apps | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24/25 | 49 | 18 | 7 |
| 23/24 | 53 | 16 | 7 |
| 22/23 | 26 | 7 | 3 |
Hailed as a `monster` by journalist Declan Carr for his season, the 26-year-old`s performances are attracting attention from other clubs.
Reports from Sky Germany indicate that Bayern Munich, having likely missed out on Wirtz to Liverpool, have now set their sights on Gakpo.
However, FSG has reportedly set a high asking price of €100m (£84m), making a move by Bayern unlikely.
This valuation underscores Gakpo`s quality and places him above even Anthony Gordon, considered one of England`s top wingers, in terms of market value.
Considering Gakpo`s performance last season, an £80m signing like Gordon might struggle to displace him from the primary role on the left flank. Here`s a comparison of their Premier League stats from the 2024/25 season:
| Stats (* per game) | Gakpo | Gordon |
|---|---|---|
| Matches (starts) | 35 (23) | 34 (28) |
| Goals | 10 | 6 |
| Assists | 4 | 5 |
| Shots (on target)* | 1.6 (0.70) | 1.7 (0.6) |
| Big chances missed | 6 | 10 |
| Pass completion | 84% | 81% |
| Big chances created | 11 | 6 |
| Key passes* | 1.1 | 1.5 |
| Dribbles* | 0.9 | 1.1 |
| Tackles + interceptions* | 1.1 | 1.1 |
| Duels won* | 3.1 | 4.4 |
While Gordon had a stronger previous term, being Newcastle`s Player of the Year with 11 goals and 15 assists in the top flight, Gakpo`s consistent improvement at Liverpool suggests he is well-positioned for further success in the upcoming campaign.
Gakpo`s goal-scoring prowess also makes him a potentially great partner for Kerkez, who is expected to join as Liverpool`s new left-back. Gakpo was among the top 5% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Premier League last season for goals scored per 90 minutes (0.47), according to FBref.
Kerkez, whom Bournemouth value at £45m and pundit Jamie Carragher has called a `revelation`, possesses energy and enthusiasm that could perfectly complement the £120k-per-week star`s attacking drive.
