David Ornstein Reveals Liverpool’s Next Summer Move after £40m Milos Kerkez Deal | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Calculated Pause: Smart Strategy or Missed Opportunity?

Liverpool have never been a club that lets the market dictate their hand. From the Van Dijk saga to the present day, there’s a confidence in waiting for the right deal rather than the quick fix. David Ornstein’s latest report for The Athletic confirms that this summer is following the same script.

“Liverpool have conducted impressive early work this summer — recruiting Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz and agreeing a deal for Milos Kerkez — but that activity is likely to be followed by a pause while they observe market developments.”

This isn’t inaction, it’s deliberate. After ticking off vital boxes at left-back and in the creative department, Arne Slot’s side is taking a breath. With the likes of Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike admired but not pursued aggressively, the Reds are opting to wait for the right opportunity, not just any opportunity.

Kerkez Signing Clears Path for Next Moves

The impending arrival of Milos Kerkez adds much-needed depth on the left, an area Liverpool had to address following question marks over Andrew Robertson’s longevity and fitness. It’s a move that might not grab headlines in the way Wirtz has, but it reflects smart squad planning.

With Giorgi Mamardashvili and Armin Pecsi also added to the group, there’s a pattern emerging — intelligent, progressive signings that fit the manager’s system. The deal for Florian Wirtz, who brings elite creativity and positional flexibility, feels like a statement.

Photo: IMAGO

As Ornstein wrote, “Whether or not a direct replacement is acquired for Nunez — whose minutes have been limited anyway — buying Wirtz has already changed the attacking dynamic available to head coach Arne Slot.”

That last point is crucial. Wirtz’s arrival means Liverpool are already shifting how they approach attack. With Nunez on the periphery, it’s clear this squad is being reshaped with a different kind of mobility and intelligence in mind.

Sales May Shape Future Signings

Liverpool’s next phase of activity hinges on who departs. It’s no secret that interest in Alexander Isak exists, but Newcastle have no pressure to sell, especially with Champions League football and stable financial footing.

Isak would bring a polished, goalscoring threat, but Liverpool aren’t jumping the gun. Darwin Nunez’s potential sale could act as the trigger, but only if the timing and valuation align.

Then there’s the defensive conundrum. Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi is reportedly admired, yet the club are reluctant to meet a premium fee with only a year left on his deal.

Photo: IMAGO

There’s a calm realism about the situation. Liverpool will spend — but they won’t overspend. That discipline has defined this new era, just as it once did under Michael Edwards and Julian Ward.

Early Business Shows Shift Under Slot

With Slot now in full control after his title-winning debut season, there’s no sense of panic or reactive behaviour. The squad is being moulded into his vision — not just Klopp’s leftovers dressed up for another year.

The headline act is undoubtedly Wirtz. “The signing of the summer” is how many already label him, and it’s hard to argue. His versatility, flair, and positional IQ offer Slot a range of tactical weapons.

A centre-back and a quality forward might be needed to elevate this window from excellent to elite, but the Reds aren’t far off.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For many fans, this kind of calculated patience feels like vintage Liverpool. We’ve seen this before — when the club waited for Van Dijk, ignored the noise, and got it right. The same feeling is bubbling now.

The early moves have been impressive. Frimpong adds dynamism down the flank, and Wirtz? That lad looks generational. You can already imagine the Kop chanting his name after he slots one in from the edge of the box. Mamardashvili is one for the future, but he’s no mug — he could push for the number one shirt if Alisson isn’t 100%.

There’s an excitement around Kerkez too. He’s not just another squad filler, he’s a proper athlete who loves to attack. We’ve needed that cover on the left for a while now.

And let’s be honest — the idea of Isak in this team? That’s mouthwatering. But we trust the process. We’ve seen too many transfer windows end in chaos elsewhere. At Liverpool, there’s a plan. Slot’s already proven he’s got the winning formula. Give him the tools, and there’s no reason this team can’t go again.