Liverpool are ‘Watching £26m Midfielder Closely’ Ahead of Potential Summer Move – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Former Slot Captain as Midfield Reinforcements Loom

As Liverpool prepare for their first full summer under new head coach Arne Slot, fresh midfield reinforcements are once again on the radar. Despite last year’s extensive rebuild—bringing in Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo, and Ryan Gravenberch—there’s growing consensus that another creative presence could be key in taking the Reds to the next level.

While Stefan Bajcetic is expected to return to Anfield after a productive loan spell at Las Palmas, and Curtis Jones continues to offer reliable depth, question marks linger over Liverpool’s ability to unlock low blocks and break down defensive units—especially when Szoboszlai and Mac Allister are tasked with deeper responsibilities.

This is where a familiar name has re-entered the conversation: Orkun Kokcu.

Kokcu Back in the Frame

As reported by Record.pt, Liverpool are once again “watching closely” as Kokcu flourishes in Portugal. The 24-year-old has notched up 11 goals and seven assists this season for Benfica and is said to be “operating at his peak”. That level of output is bound to raise eyebrows at Anfield.

The Turkish international, who captained Feyenoord to the Eredivisie title under Arne Slot in 2023, was previously on Liverpool’s radar before his £26m move to Benfica. At the time, a deal felt close, but never materialised. Still, the interest has never truly dissipated.

Photo: IMAGO

According to Record.pt, Kokcu is now viewed by Slot as “one of his preferred targets” for the summer window, a significant endorsement that underlines how well the player fits the Dutchman’s system and footballing ideals.

Slot Factor Could Be Decisive

Kokcu’s previous relationship with Arne Slot could prove critical. He is not just a talented midfielder, but a trusted on-field leader who already knows Slot’s expectations. That pre-existing bond might give Liverpool a competitive edge, even with a reported £129m release clause in place.

One quote stands out in Record.pt’s coverage: “Slot said to see Kokcu as one of his preferred targets”—a clear signal that this isn’t just idle gossip. This is a manager with a clear blueprint for his side, and Kokcu is an influential piece within it.

While the financial outlay may appear daunting, there’s a growing belief that the Turkish international is both attainable and well-suited for a step up to Premier League competition.

What Kokcu Would Bring to Anfield

Stylistically, Kokcu offers a blend of vision, work rate, and attacking output. In many ways, he could be seen as a natural upgrade to Harvey Elliott, who appears to be falling out of favour under Slot. The former Feyenoord skipper thrives in transitional play and boasts the kind of leadership credentials that could be invaluable for a young and evolving Liverpool squad.

Moreover, his ability to operate as a No.8 or advanced playmaker aligns with Slot’s penchant for tactical flexibility. As Liverpool look to evolve beyond the Jurgen Klopp era, Kokcu’s arrival could represent a clear pivot towards a more controlled, possession-heavy approach.

“Liverpool are once again watching closely after Kokcu delivered a strong season for Benfica,” Record.pt note—a reminder that past interest has only grown stronger with time.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool supporters, the link to Orkun Kokcu is one that ticks multiple boxes. Not only is he a proven leader and technically gifted midfielder, but he also boasts the kind of personal relationship with Arne Slot that few other targets can claim.

Slot’s desire to bring in someone familiar with his high-intensity, tactical style suggests he’s laying the groundwork for a true system-based squad. And with the likes of Gravenberch and Szoboszlai still finding consistency, adding a player who understands Slot’s demands could offer a much-needed shortcut in implementation.

It’s also refreshing to see Liverpool being proactive. Under Klopp, the club often waited for the perfect player at the perfect price. While that brought plenty of success, the modern game demands a touch more urgency and risk. Kokcu might not come cheap, but if he’s genuinely one of Slot’s “preferred targets”, the club should do everything they can to make it happen.

Given his creative numbers, leadership, and adaptability, Kokcu feels like a statement signing for a new Liverpool era. Whether he starts or rotates, it’s easy to imagine him becoming a fan favourite quickly—especially with his firebrand playing style and knack for producing big moments.

For a club in transition, this is exactly the type of deal that could stabilise the midfield while raising the squad’s ceiling. Don’t be surprised if this one gathers serious momentum in the coming weeks.