Liverpool's New Era: Arne Slot's Plan to Replace Van Dijk & Strengthen Midfield

Liverpool's New Era: Arne Slot's Plan to Replace Van Dijk & Strengthen Midfield
Liverpool's transition from the Jurgen Klopp era to the Arne Slot era was marked by evolution rather than revolution this summer. Slot was joined at Anfield by new sporting director Richard Hughes, and together they made just two new signings during the transfer window, adding only one new player to this season's squad.
Italy forward Federico Chiesa has strengthened the club’s attack following his move from Juventus, while goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili will join next summer after returning to Valencia on loan for the 2024/25 season.
Slot has had a promising start with the Reds, winning his first three Premier League games before a home defeat to Nottingham Forest. Liverpool quickly recovered from that setback by coming from behind to beat AC Milan at the San Siro in the Champions League.
As Slot becomes more familiar with his squad, a strategy for the January transfer window is beginning to take shape. the club plans to make two signings when the window reopens after Christmas, focusing on a defensive midfielder and a left-sided center-back.
This follows their unsuccessful pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi in the summer, with Slot using Ryan Gravenberch in that role so far this season. It appears Liverpool will not renew their interest in Zubimendi, as a move for him is considered 'dead in the water,' though no specific names are mentioned for either position.
A move for a left-sided center-back suggests the club is preparing for a successor to Virgil van Dijk. The Reds' captain, who turned 33 this summer, is in the final year of his current contract, and finding a replacement is becoming necessary.
The club clearly sees the need to add depth and quality in defensive midfield and to secure a replacement for Van Dijk, regardless of whether the Dutchman signs a new contract this season.

[@magicbuddha7243]

Virgil will be 34 in 2025. For both, it is better to stop at LFC when Virgil is still good. Virgil is an excellent defensive leader, responsible for the uprise under Klopp. It will be tough to find another best defender of the world for less than €100 million

[@sundayadeleye-b1u]

Van Dijk slows Dawn our attack too often. Any time he does that ,we hardly don't get into our elements