Opinion: Must-Have Players for Liverpool This Summer | OneFootball

Players Liverpool Should Sign Under Arne Slot This Summer

Liverpool fans are eager to see how new manager Arne Slot will shape the team in the upcoming season. There’s room for improvement with a young squad full of potential. Trev Downey from Anfield Index delves into the key signings that could bolster Liverpool’s chances of success. Here, we highlight some players who could significantly impact Anfield.

Securing the Defense: Riccardo Calafiori

Photo by IMAGO

Liverpool’s defensive line also requires reinforcement, particularly on the left side. With Virgil van Dijk ageing and Andrew Robertson dealing with injuries, Downey proposes Riccardo Calafiori as a potential candidate. “The 22-year-old standing at 6’2″ excels at both centre back and left back,” says Downey, highlighting his versatility and defensive skills.

Calafiori’s ability to read the game and his ball-playing skills make him an ideal modern defender. Downey points out that Calafiori “ranks in the high percentiles for passes blocked and interceptions,” emphasizing his defensive acumen. His potential to replace Van Dijk in the future makes him a strategic acquisition for Liverpool.

Future-Proofing the Left Back: Rayan Aït-Nouri

Photo: IMAGO

Planning for the future, Liverpool needs to find a successor for Andrew Robertson. Downey suggests Rayan Aït-Nouri from Wolverhampton Wanderers. At 22, Aït-Nouri offers versatility and technical prowess. “He can play as a traditional left back, left wing-back, winger on either side and even as a left-sided number 10,” notes Downey, highlighting his adaptability.

Aït-Nouri’s ability to retain the ball under pressure and create scoring opportunities makes him a valuable asset. Defensively, his “anticipation and awareness in 1v1 situations” are commendable. With a current valuation of 32 million EUR, Aït-Nouri represents an intelligent investment for Liverpool’s future.

A Creative Force: Xavi Simons

Photo: IMAGO

With Mohamed Salah not getting any younger, Liverpool must look for a potential successor. Downey identifies Xavi Simons as a promising candidate. Simons, who has expressed a desire to leave PSG, could join Liverpool on a loan deal with a view to a permanent transfer. Downey highlights his versatility and creativity, noting his “10 goals and 13 assists” for RB Leipzig last season.

Simons’ ability to drive the ball forward and impressive shot-creating actions make him an exciting prospect. His potential to fit into Slot’s philosophy and his young age makes him an ideal future star for Liverpool.

Versatile Attacker: Bryan Mbeumo

Photo by IMAGO

Finally, Downey suggests Bryan Mbeumo as a versatile attacking option. Mbeumo’s ability to play both as a winger and a striker makes him a valuable addition to Liverpool’s squad. Despite missing part of last season, Mbeumo’s “nine goals and six assists in 25 Premier League games” demonstrate his effectiveness.

Downey emphasizes Mbeumo’s underlying numbers, noting his “0.34 non-penalty xG” and his impressive key passes per game. Mbeumo’s versatility and finishing ability could provide much-needed depth and competition in Liverpool’s attacking line.

In conclusion, Trev Downey’s insights highlight key areas where Liverpool can strengthen their squad. Riccardo Calafiori, Rayan Aït-Nouri, Xavi Simons, and Bryan Mbeumo represent strategic signings that could enhance Liverpool’s chances of success under Arne Slot. As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen which of these targets will don the famous red shirt at Anfield.