Wirtz
Liverpool fans have only just caught their breath after the club’s historic 20th league title, but all eyes are already on what’s next. With Arne Slot now firmly in the managerial seat, Liverpool’s summer is shaping up to be anything but quiet. Transfer plans are heating up, and as the celebrations settle, the focus shifts to reshaping a squad capable of defending the title and pushing for even greater glory in Europe.
Wirtz and Frimpong Deals on the Brink of Completion
Liverpool’s transfer window could kick off with two major signings from Germany. According to reports from the Daily Mail, the Reds are nearing completion on deals for Bayer Leverkusen duo Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong. Both have been pivotal to Leverkusen’s recent rise, and their addition would mark a clear signal of intent from Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes.
Wirtz, the reigning German Players’ Player of the Season for the second consecutive year, is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most technically gifted playmakers. At just 22, he already possesses the vision, composure, and creative spark that could elevate Liverpool’s midfield to a new level. His numbers this season speak volumes—double-digit goals and assists, countless chances created, and a maturity on the pitch beyond his years.
Meanwhile, Jeremie Frimpong offers a different kind of dynamism. The Dutch right-back is known for his blistering pace, aggressive pressing, and end product. With Trent Alexander-Arnold potentially continuing his evolution into a midfield hybrid role, Frimpong’s arrival could offer both tactical flexibility and much-needed depth on the flanks.
While the final stages of both transfers are still being wrapped up, all indications point to an imminent announcement. These two arrivals could kick-start a summer of significant squad evolution.
Focus Turns to a New No. 9 and Central Defender
With the Wirtz and Frimpong deals nearly done, Liverpool’s next priorities are crystal clear: a central striker and a centre-back.
Darwin Nunez, who has shown flashes of brilliance since arriving from Benfica, appears increasingly likely to move on. While he offers raw power and unpredictability, questions remain over his consistency and finishing. His potential departure would generate a sizeable fee, which Liverpool plans to reinvest immediately.
The list of possible replacements is stacked with intriguing names. Hugo Ekitike of Eintracht Frankfurt is among the early candidates. The French striker has a strong physical presence and a knack for scoring in tight spaces. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko is another exciting prospect, offering height, movement, and a clinical edge that would suit the Premier League. And if Atletico’s Julian Alvarez is genuinely available, Liverpool will surely test the waters.
Up top, the goal is clear: sign a striker who can offer reliability in front of goal, fit into a high-pressing system, and complement the likes of Mohamed Salah, Luis Díaz, and Diogo Jota. Whoever the Reds choose, it will be a defining move of the window.
At the back, Liverpool are exploring options for a central defender who can provide both quality and depth. Jarell Quansah has attracted outside interest, but Liverpool have slapped a £50 million price tag on the homegrown talent. That figure speaks volumes about his value to the squad. Whether Liverpool cash in or keep him remains to be seen, but the club is expected to act either way to ensure they don’t head into the season light in defense.
Heitinga’s Future and Arne Slot’s Influence
Heitinga
As Arne Slot builds his Liverpool identity, backroom decisions are also taking shape. Assistant coach John Heitinga is reportedly on Ajax’s radar as their potential head coach. However, Slot has publicly advised his right-hand man to remain at Anfield—for now.
Slot’s preference to keep Heitinga reflects a desire for stability during this period of transition. Their partnership was vital at Feyenoord, and Slot clearly values the Dutchman’s experience, tactical nous, and connection with the players. Whether Heitinga stays or not, the outcome will have implications for Liverpool’s preseason and how Slot’s ideas take shape ahead of the new campaign.
Endo Stays: “Liverpool is Worth It”
Wataru Endo may not have featured prominently this season—clocking just 865 minutes—but his commitment to the club remains steadfast. In a recent interview, Endo declared his intention to stay at Liverpool, saying it’s a club “that’s worth it.”
His attitude reflects a broader sense of unity within the squad, even among those on the fringes. Players like Endo bring invaluable professionalism and stability to the dressing room, especially during a summer of significant change. With a hectic fixture calendar looming and international tournaments potentially impacting availability, Endo’s decision to remain could prove quietly important.
A Squad That’s Stepping Up—On and Off the Pitch
The title celebrations reminded the world of just how special Liverpool Football Club is. Over one million supporters lined the streets for the open-top bus parade, turning the city red with joy and unity. But amid the scenes of euphoria, there was also a moment for remembrance.
May 29 marked the 40th anniversary of the Heysel Stadium disaster. The club and its supporters took time to honor the 39 victims who tragically lost their lives before the 1985 European Cup final. It was a powerful reminder of how football’s joy can never come at the expense of safety and human life. Liverpool’s strength lies in its heart—both in how it celebrates and how it mourns.
Cody Gakpo Transfer Rumors Swirl, But Exit Unlikely
Cody Gakpo
One of the more surprising rumors involves Cody Gakpo. The Dutch forward has reportedly attracted interest from Bayern Munich, but early suggestions indicate Liverpool are unlikely to entertain a sale. Gakpo has steadily grown into a key figure for the Reds, offering versatility across the front line and contributing vital goals in the title run-in.
His ability to drop deep, link play, and find the net makes him a valuable asset in Slot’s system. Unless Bayern make an offer too good to refuse, Gakpo is expected to stay and play a bigger role next season.
Tsimikas and Mamardashvili Updates
Elsewhere, Kostas Tsimikas is drawing interest from two European clubs. While he’s been a reliable backup to Andy Robertson, the Greek international could move on this summer in search of more regular playing time. Liverpool, for their part, are open to offers but won’t sell for cheap.
Meanwhile, Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili is reportedly set to join Liverpool in a £29 million deal. His standout performances at Euro 2024 caught the eye, and with Caoimhin Kelleher possibly departing in search of a starting role, Mamardashvili could slot in as Alisson’s long-term understudy—and potential successor.
Elsewhere in the Football World
The wider football landscape continues to evolve. Liam Delap is tipped to join Chelsea after a successful spell with Ipswich, while England’s U21 squad will be without Adam Wharton due to concussion—a setback that could affect his potential summer move.
And in one of the more amusing post-season stories, Manchester United fell to a 1-0 defeat against the ASEAN All-Stars in Kuala Lumpur. While little more than an exhibition match, the result underlines the contrasting trajectories of England’s two most storied clubs. As Liverpool builds under new leadership, United continues to struggle for identity and results.
What’s Next for Liverpool?
With preseason just weeks away, Arne Slot’s to-do list is growing. Finalizing incoming deals, resolving contract situations, and establishing tactical systems are all high on the agenda.
The confirmed arrivals of Wirtz and Frimpong will be major milestones—but they’re just the beginning. A reliable striker, a central defender, and possibly a backup goalkeeper are all on the cards. Outgoings like Nunez, Tsimikas, and potentially Kelleher will also shape how much room Liverpool has to maneuver in the market.
Beyond transfers, Slot will aim to integrate his philosophy during preseason training. While his high-pressing, possession-focused approach bears some resemblance to Jürgen Klopp’s, he’ll add his own tweaks and tactical flexibility. The Dutchman’s record at Feyenoord suggests he values structure, aggression off the ball, and fluidity in the final third. This Liverpool team has the tools to thrive under his vision.
Final Thoughts
The 2024–25 season will go down in Liverpool folklore as the one that brought the club its 20th league title. But the new era under Arne Slot is only just beginning.
With transfer plans in motion and a revamped backroom team, Liverpool is preparing for its next great chapter. As always, speculation will swirl, deals will come and go, and fans will dissect every rumor. But one thing is certain—Liverpool are not standing still. They’re building, planning, and aiming higher.
For Liverpool supporters, the message is clear: enjoy the memories of this past season but get ready for another thrilling ride. The next phase of the club’s journey is already underway, and if early signs are anything to go by, it’s going to be special.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com