EXCLUSIVE: Diogo Jota among high-profile exits in era-defining overhaul
Another summer of change is on the horizon for Liverpool.
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During the summer of 2023, the Reds focused on rebuilding their midfield. Last summer, the focus was on behind the scenes with Arne Slot replacing Jurgen Klopp, the return of Michael Edwards and Julian Ward, and the appointment of Richard Hughes as Sporting Director.
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At the end of the current campaign, there looks set to be an overhaul at Anfield.
There’s still uncertainty over the futures of Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold. If any of them leave, they will, somehow, have to be replaced. A new left-back is inevitable with links to Milos Kerkez, Alvaro Carreras and Rayan Ait-Nouri, and there’s been talk of a new midfield arrival after missing out on Martin Zubimendi.
The goalkeeper situation is also something to consider. Caoimhin Kelleher has made no secret he wants to be playing first-team football on a regular basis, so a move away from Merseyside appears to be on the agenda. Giorgi Mamardashvilli was recently caught on camera speaking to Ferran Torres after Valencia played Barcelona. When asked why he was still with the LaLiga side, he stated it was because of Alisson.
If the Georgian arrives in the summer as expected, the implication is the former Roma man could well depart.
There’s a lot to do already. It is going to be even busier though with Anfield Watch sources learning Slot, Hughes and the recruitment team are planning to revamp Liverpool’s attacking options.
Liverpool's front line set for summer revamp
Despite the Reds being top of the Premier League and claiming top spot in the Champions League, the Dutch coach isn’t enamoured with his forward line.
Liverpool would’ve sold Darwin Nunez in early January had a bid of £85million been placed for the enigmatic Uruguayan, as exclusively revealed. The Reds are convinced clubs from the Saudi league will return for their No9 in the summer and after three years of false dawns, there seems to be an acceptance that it is the right time to sever ties.
There’s also a belief that Luis Diaz will be a target for the Saudi league.
The 28-year-old will be into the final two years of his deal in the summer and though talks over a new deal had been reported, things haven’t progressed. Anfield Watch has learnt Slot has become frustrated with the Colombian as the season has progressed.
The No7 started the campaign brightly with five goals in his opening five matches but has since added just three Premier League goals across his last 17 appearances. For all of his good work, his output is lacking. He isn’t seen as a reliable outlet.
There’s also doubt over the future of Diogo Jota.
Anfield Watch understands that he’s another who is frustrating the Liverpool manager.
The 28-year-old will also enter the final two years of his deal at the end of the season. When he’s fit, he’s Liverpool’s best centre-forward. The issue is, he’s always picking up the odd knock that sees him miss a handful of matches. We’re now in February and he has just seven starts in the Premier League this term.
Arsenal had a keen interest in the Portugal international last summer and though there’d be a reluctance to sell to a rival, he’s available for the right fee. There are also suitors from abroad keeping an eye on his situation with the Merseyside club.
Federico Chiesa was a free hit and it hasn’t necessarily paid off yet. He isn’t for the chopping board, as he’s viewed as a value-for-money squad option, but, again, if an offer arrives that suits the club, he could also depart.
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It could be a ruthless transfer window for the Reds and one that truly ushers in the new era at Anfield.
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