Arne Slot has indicated he will not raid current club Feyenoord when he takes over as Liverpool boss. Slot’s appointment at Anfield is close to being finalized after the two clubs agreed a compensation package for the Dutchman.
Both Liverpool and Feyenoord end their seasons this weekend and it is expected that Slot could be announced as Jürgen Klopp’s replacement as early as next week. He is set to assume the title of ‘head coach’, meaning he will not have complete control over incomings and outgoings.
But that has not stopped links to several Feyenoord players, who have progressed considerably under Slot’s stewardship. De Telegraaf reported last month that defender Lutsharel Geertruida wanted to join Slot at Liverpool, having watched the recent draw with West Ham from the stands.
According to HITC, midfielder Mats Wieffer is also on the radar having been tipped to become ‘one of the best players in the world’ by Slot. Meanwhile, Slovakian defender Dávid Hancko was a reported target for Liverpool last summer and he has made no secret of his admiration for the Reds.
Feyenoord will finish second in the Eredivisie this season and has already won the Dutch Cup, having lifted the league title a year ago. And Slot hopes the squad he has built will stick together, hinting he will not try to lure a host of players to Anfield.
Speaking to Dutch publication Algemeen Dagblad after the win over NEC, he said: “Our belief was and is to make the entire team better. And these boys have all been given time and attention to improve.
“Feyenoord should mainly ensure that as few players leave as possible. Then many players will be able to do this with their eyes closed for the next six months.” Slot could well be replaced by ex-Liverpool midfielder Nuri Şahin at Feyenoord after the Borussia Dortmund assistant emerged as a possible successor.
Liverpool’s transfer business will be led by new sporting director Richard Hughes, who will officially start work when the season ends next week. A central defender is likely to be high on the wish list as Joël Matip prepares to leave on a free transfer. The Athletic claims a wide attacker will also be targeted.
Liverpool.com says: Slot has built a very talented squad at Feyenoord and the Dutch giants will be reluctant to lose any key men. But if he feels they are ready to play in the Premier League, Liverpool may well make a move. He will have some say in identifying targets but the final say will go to Richard Hughes and co.
