That hasn't stopped Liverpool being linked with multiple talents across world soccer, and Slot revealed in his first press conference that he's been speaking to sporting director Richard Hughes about transfer strategies. Former head coach Jurgen Klopp has handed over a strong Liverpool roster, but Slot will want to add his own personal touches ahead of the 2024-25 season.
It's expected that there could be a Dutch era on the cards at Liverpool, meaning that Virgil van Dijk and Cody Gakpo could be joined by current or future international teammates at the club. The Premier League season is just one month away, meaning that confirmed signings should be announced in the very near future.
Here is the Liverpool.com verdict on the transfer gossip to emerge around the Reds today, including the latest on Jeremie Frimpong and Joao Neves.
Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen)
Bayer Leverkusen star Frimpong has reportedly declared interest in joining Liverpool, according to German outlet BILD. The 23-year-old was pivotal to Leverkusen's success last season, where they made history by remaining unbeaten across all domestic competitions.
Frimpong is known for his speed and crossing abilities, and has become a regular feature in the Dutch national team. Frimpong is versatile and can operate as a right-back or right-winger, which could be of use to Slot should he experiment with Trent Alexander-Arnold's position.
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Liverpool would have to convince former Reds hero Xabi Alonso to let him go, and after Leverkusen signed him to a contract extension last season, he won't be available unless significant cash is offered. However, Frimpong may also be at his peak value, which could tempt the German club into a sale.
Liverpool.com says: Frimpong's versatility makes him a perfect target for Liverpool, and the Dutch link will only strengthen their chances of signing the 23-year-old. However, after Leverkusen won the Bundesliga and qualified for the Champions League, it's likely that the roster will want to see out next season after all their hard work.
Should Leverkusen surrender the German title and crash out of Europe, an exodus could be on the cards next summer. That might be the best time for Liverpool to pursue a deal, but Frimpong is contracted through 2028.
Joao Neves (Benfica)
Liverpool's interest in Joao Neves has been ongoing all summer, and speculation increased when Diogo Jota admitted that the 19-year-old midfielder would have a brilliant career. Neves has received interest from Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United, but the $130 million release clause set by Benfica is turning teams away.
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It was expected that Neves would be the breakthrough star of Euro 2024, but the young midfielder failed to shine on his only start as Portugal lost 2-0 against Georgia. Neves looks like he will become a star, but it remains to be seen if Liverpool is ready to gamble at this stage in his career.
Liverpool.com says: The excitement surrounding Neves is justified, and ever since Cristiano Ronaldo became a star at Manchester United there has been more eyes on Portuguese talent. Liverpool has shown they are willing to spend on a midfielder after bidding a staggering $140 million on Moises Caicedo, before losing out to Chelsea.
At 19, Neves could be a long-term option for Liverpool, but his poor performance at Euro 2024 may raise red flags. Unless Benfica is willing to accept a lower offer than his release clause, it's unlikely any team will gamble on Neves this summer.
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