Report: Arne Slot Names Priority Liverpool Target With £128m Clause | OneFootball

Arne Slot’s Vision for Liverpool: Targeting Orkun Kokcu as a Strategic First Signing

As Arne Slot steps into his new role as Liverpool manager, his ambitions are clear, and his targets are already in sight. According to Turkish outlet Fotospor, Slot has identified Benfica midfielder Orkun Kokcu as a potential first signing for Liverpool. This choice is not only strategic but speaks volumes about Slot’s intentions to shape the team to his tactical preferences.

Unveiling Slot’s Tactical Blueprint

Having previously managed Kokcu at Feyenoord, where the midfielder served as captain, Slot is familiar with his capabilities and potential. Under Slot’s management, Kokcu demonstrated his versatility across the midfield, proficiently playing as a No6, No8, and No10. However, it’s Kokcu’s stint in his preferred No10 role that truly underscores his effectiveness — a position where he ended the season with impressive stats, tallying seven assists and nine goals.

Photo: IMAGO

The interest in Kokcu is indicative of Slot’s intent to build a midfield that is not only dynamic but also adaptable to various game scenarios. Liverpool’s current squad dynamics and the fierce competition in the Premier League necessitate such tactical flexibility.

Addressing the Financial Elephant in the Room

The financial aspect of this potential transfer cannot be ignored. Kokcu’s move from Feyenoord to Benfica was sealed at around £21m, but his current release clause stands at a staggering £128m, according to Fotospor. This clause poses a significant challenge for Liverpool, particularly in a transfer window where financial prudence is paramount.

Yet, if Liverpool decides to activate this clause, it would be a strong testament to Slot’s belief in Kokcu’s ability to elevate the team’s performance. The investment would be aimed at not just acquiring a midfielder, but securing a player who could potentially transform the team’s tactical setup and execution.

Kokcu’s Frustrations and Future Aspirations

Kokcu’s recent expressions of frustration under Benfica coach Roger Schmidt provide further insight into why Slot might see him as an ideal fit for Liverpool. Kokcu complained about being overly restricted to defensive duties, stating, “Schmidt ties me too much to all kinds of defensive tasks, and that is not positive if you really want to get the most out of my qualities.”

This sentiment resonates with a player eager to maximize his offensive contributions, something Slot is likely keen to capitalize on. Kokcu’s vision for his role aligns with the kind of midfield architect Liverpool could utilize to dismantle the structured defences of Premier League rivals like Manchester City and Arsenal.

Integrating Kokcu into Liverpool’s Fabric

Integrating Kokcu into Liverpool would require more than just tactical adjustments. It would necessitate a cultural fit, allowing him to thrive and contribute to the team’s ethos and objectives. Slot’s previous experience with Kokcu could be pivotal in smoothing this transition, ensuring that the player’s potential is fully harnessed in the competitive landscape of English football.

As Liverpool prepares for the upcoming season, the acquisition of a player like Kokcu could be seen as a foundational move in Slot’s strategy to enhance the team’s competitiveness in both domestic and European theatres.

This potential signing is a narrative of both opportunity and challenge — the opportunity to bring a familiar and highly capable player into the fold, and the challenge of justifying a hefty financial outlay in pursuit of Premier League glory. As the summer transfer window unfolds, all eyes will be on Liverpool to see how this story develops.

Statistical Analysis by Anfield Index: Orkun Kokcu’s Performance Data and Stats

Kokcu’s Attacking Prowess

The latest data from Fbref reveals that Orkun Kokcu’s attacking capabilities are exceptional. Scoring in the 99th percentile for assists among midfielders over the last year, his contribution to his team’s offensive efforts is undeniable. This is supported further by his high ranks in non-penalty expected goals (xG) and shots total, both also in the 98th and 99th percentiles, respectively. These metrics suggest that Kokcu isn’t just creating chances; he’s consistently putting himself in positions to score, enhancing his value as an attacking midfielder.

Possession and Playmaking

In terms of possession, Kokcu’s stats illuminate his central role in playmaking. Ranking in the 99th percentile for progressive passes and 93rd for progressive carries, he is instrumental in moving the ball into more threatening areas, indicating his crucial role in transition play. However, his passes attempted and pass completion percentage, which are relatively lower at the 96th and 53rd percentiles, may point towards a high-risk, high-reward style of play. This aspect of his game underlines his confidence and willingness to attempt game-changing passes, albeit at the cost of a lower completion rate.

Room for Improvement in Defence

While Kokcu excels in offensive metrics, his defensive contributions tell a different story. His low percentiles in blocks, interceptions, and tackles show that while he can contribute to team defence, it is not his primary strength. This might be an area for potential improvement or a tactical allocation that his coach could address to better balance his defensive duties with his offensive output.

Kokcu’s comprehensive performance stats suggest a player with exceptional offensive talents and the ability to significantly influence a game’s outcome through his playmaking skills. His stats profile, courtesy of Fbref, paints the picture of a dynamic midfielder who is an asset to his team’s attacking ambitions, though there is always room for growth in balancing his defensive responsibilities.