footballtopstar

Blog

  • Liverpool Seal £40m Agreement to Sign Kerkez from Bournemouth

    Liverpool Seal £40m Agreement to Sign Kerkez from Bournemouth

    In a major move to bolster their backline, Liverpool have reached an agreement to sign Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth in a deal worth £40 million. The 21-year-old Hungary international will be making the switch to the Premier League champions after a standout two-year spell with the Cherries.

    With Bournemouth already bringing in Adrien Truffert from Rennes as a replacement, the road is now clear for Kerkez to complete his move to Anfield.

    But that’s not the only headline coming out of Merseyside today. Liverpool are on the brink of completing a club-record £116 million transfer for Florian Wirtz, the electric attacking midfielder from Bayer Leverkusen. This follows the arrival of Jeremie Frimpong, also from the German club, in a £29.5 million move to strengthen the right side of the Reds’ defence.

    Back to Kerkez: Born in Serbia, he began his professional journey at Hungarian club Gyor before making a high-profile switch to AC Milan. Though he didn’t make a first-team appearance in Italy, his next move to Dutch side AZ Alkmaar in January 2022 proved pivotal.

    In the 2022-23 season, Kerkez helped AZ Alkmaar to a fourth-place finish in the Eredivisie, notching five goals and seven assists across 52 appearances. He was instrumental in their run to the semi-finals of the Europa Conference League, where they were ultimately knocked out by the eventual winners West Ham.

    His move to Bournemouth in the summer of 2023 reunited him with current Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes, who previously held the same position at the south coast club. Kerkez was a revelation in his debut Premier League season, starting all 38 games as Bournemouth secured a record ninth-place finish with 56 points. He chipped in with two goals and six assists along the way.

    Now set to join his Hungary teammate Dominik Szoboszlai at Liverpool, Kerkez’s arrival does raise questions about the future of existing left-backs Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas. Sources suggest Liverpool are eager to hold on to Robertson, but recognize the 31-year-old Scot might be tempted by a move—Atletico Madrid are reportedly interested. As for Tsimikas, the club appears willing to let the Greek international move on in search of more minutes.

    So, what exactly will Kerkez bring to Arne Slot’s Liverpool?

    According to BBC Sport journalist Nat Hayward, Kerkez is “the perfect full-back for how Liverpool play football.” While Jurgen Klopp’s high-octane style has evolved under Slot into something more structured, the core philosophy of aggressive pressing remains.

    The stats certainly support his fit. Last season, Kerkez recovered the ball 169 times—the fifth-highest among Premier League defenders and more than any Liverpool player. He also made 11 ball recoveries in the attacking third, again outperforming his potential new teammates.

    Creatively, he was a force. He generated 34 chances from open play, placing him seventh among defenders, and finished with five assists, which was joint-fourth in that category. His 142 crosses were the sixth-most among defenders, and he created eight big chances, ranking him seventh.

    When it comes to ball progression, Kerkez passed into the final third 476 times—good for 10th place among Premier League defenders. And in terms of dribbling, no Liverpool defender completed more dribbles than his 22.

    With numbers like these, Milos Kerkez looks well-equipped to slot into Slot’s system, both offensively and defensively. A promising addition as Liverpool reshape their squad for another title run.

    Stay tuned—we’ll keep bringing you the latest from Anfield.

  • Florian Wirtz Joins Liverpool in £116m Move from Bayer Leverkusen

    Florian Wirtz Joins Liverpool in £116m Move from Bayer Leverkusen

    In a sensational move that could shatter the British transfer record, Florian Wirtz

    In a sensational move that could shatter the British transfer record, Florian Wirtz has officially joined Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen on a five-year deal — with the total package valued at a staggering £116 million.

    The breakdown? £100 million up front, with an additional £16 million in performance-related add-ons. If those bonuses are triggered, Wirtz’s transfer would eclipse the £115 million Chelsea shelled out for Moisés Caicedo in 2023 — a fee that has stood as the benchmark for British football transfers.

    At just 22 years old, Wirtz arrives on Merseyside as one of the most exciting talents in European football. The Germany international was a standout performer in the Bundesliga last season, notching 10 goals and 12 assists in just 25 starts as Leverkusen pushed Bayern Munich all the way, finishing second a year after lifting both the league and domestic cup.

    Liverpool had been tracking Wirtz for months, alongside several top-tier European clubs. Manchester City reportedly pulled out of the race, citing the ballooning financial demands, while Bayern Munich also fell out of contention. Ultimately, it was Liverpool who won over Wirtz — and sealed the deal.

    Speaking moments ago after putting pen to paper at Anfield, Wirtz couldn’t hide his excitement:

    “I feel very happy and very proud. Finally it’s done and I was waiting for a long time. I’m really excited to have a new adventure in front of me. This was also a big point of my thoughts: that I want to have something completely new, to go out of the Bundesliga and to join the Premier League.”

    He added:

    “I will see how I can perform there. I hope I can do my best. I spoke also with some players who played there and they told me that it’s perfect for me and every pitch is perfect, you can enjoy every game. I’m really looking forward to playing my first game.”

    And in a bold statement of intent, Wirtz declared:

    “I would like to win everything every year! First of all, we have to do our work, I have to make my work. In the end, we want to be successful. Last season they won the Premier League so my goal is for sure to win it again and also to go further in the Champions League. I’m really ambitious.”

    There you have it — Florian Wirtz is now a Liverpool player, and with a deal of this magnitude, the pressure and expectations will be sky-high. But judging by his words and his record, this is a player who’s ready to meet the moment.

    Stay tuned — this is just the beginning.

  • Liverpool Set for Florian Wirtz Medical as £150m Deal Nears Completion; Osimhen Transfer Battle Intensifies

    Liverpool Set for Florian Wirtz Medical as £150m Deal Nears Completion; Osimhen Transfer Battle Intensifies

    Just in — Liverpool’s long pursuit of Florian Wirtz looks to be entering its final stages. The Reds are inching closer to a historic deal for the Bayer Leverkusen star, with a medical now reportedly imminent.

    Transfer insider Florian Plettenberg has revealed that Wirtz’s medical could take place “in the next days,” as negotiations between Liverpool and Leverkusen reach a critical juncture.

    “I expect the medical will take place in the next days, as we expect the total agreement between Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen within the next one, two, or three days,” Plettenberg told Sky Sports.

    According to Plettenberg, a fresh bid from Liverpool has been tabled in the last 48 hours. The total value? A massive €150 million, including a significant package of add-ons — just shy of the €140 million outright fee that Leverkusen are said to be demanding.

    Florian Wirtz 

    Wirtz, still only 22, would become a British record transfer if the deal goes through — and all signs point to that outcome. Plettenberg added that while “some more details have to be clarified,” the player himself is “totally convinced” it will happen.

    Now, shifting focus to Liverpool’s search for a striker — the picture isn’t as clear.

    One-time target Benjamin Sesko is now heading elsewhere. According to Plettenberg, RB Leipzig’s rising star is expected to join Arsenal, with a “positive feeling” between both clubs. No full agreement yet, but the move looks increasingly likely — ruling Liverpool out of the race.

    Another option off the board is Liam Delap, who’s already completed a move to Chelsea.

    Victor Osimhen?

    Over the weekend, reports had the Napoli striker bound for the Saudi Pro League. That rumor’s now been shut down by none other than Fabrizio Romano, who stated on X that Osimhen has “rejected” an approach from Al-Hilal. The race for his signature is “now open.”

    And yes — Liverpool remain a name in that race.

    Osimhen, who spent last season on loan at Galatasaray, has been linked with multiple Premier League clubs. But it’s not yet clear if he tops Liverpool’s striker shortlist.

    Hugo Ekitike continues to be a name heard frequently in Liverpool circles. At just 21, he aligns well with the club’s youth-focused recruitment policy.

    Other names being tossed around include Julian Alvarez, Viktor Gyokeres, and Alexander Isak. Of the group, Isak is widely considered the most complete striker on the market, though Newcastle’s valuation could price him out of a move this summer.

    Stay tuned — with Liverpool’s midfield almost sorted, the next big question is: who leads the line next season?

  • “It Could’ve Broken My Leg!” – Mac Allister Still Furious Over Controversial Liverpool Call

    “It Could’ve Broken My Leg!” – Mac Allister Still Furious Over Controversial Liverpool Call

    Mac Allister Still Furious Over Tarkowski Tackle — “It could have broken my leg twice!”

    The season may be in the books, but not everything has been forgotten—especially not by Alexis Mac Allister, who remains livid over one particular moment that could have ended very differently.

    Liverpool stormed to the Premier League title this year, and central to that triumph was the phenomenal form of Mac Allister. The Argentine’s second season at Anfield confirmed why he’s considered among the world’s elite midfielders, with that £35 million price tag now looking like one of the steals of the decade.

    While most players are enjoying some well-earned rest ahead of pre-season, Mac Allister isn’t just lounging on beaches or switching off completely. He’s still carrying the frustration of one reckless moment from April—a challenge that could have changed everything.

    Tarkowski’s Tackle Still Haunts Mac Allister

    During the fiery Merseyside derby at Anfield, James Tarkowski flew into a shocking challenge that stunned fans, players, and pundits alike. Incredibly, the Everton defender escaped a red card on the day—something Mac Allister still can’t believe.

    Speaking recently in an interview back in Argentina, the 26-year-old didn’t hold back:

    “It could have broken my leg twice!” Mac Allister said.

    “That they didn’t send him [Tarkowski] off was incredible. If I’d had my foot planted on the ground, it would have broken my leg completely.”

    “At the time, I realised it was too strong. But what shocked me most was his face when he went for the tackle. I wouldn’t say he was going to try to break me, but I feel I was lucky given the way he went in.”

    The PGMOL later admitted the decision was incorrect—Tarkowski should have seen red. It was another moment that reignited the ongoing fury over VAR’s inconsistencies.

    Wirtz Rumours Quashed — Midfield Pairing Could Terrify Rivals

    Thankfully, Mac Allister escaped serious injury and is already looking ahead—with even greater ambition. Liverpool are eyeing further reinforcement in midfield, and one name continues to be linked: Florian Wirtz.

    Rumours had swirled that the young German wanted Mac Allister’s shirt number, but Wirtz shut those down with a fiery Instagram post:

    “I respect players. Don’t believe everything that’s written.”

    Now, with a potential partnership brewing, the thought of Mac Allister linking up with Wirtz has Liverpool fans dreaming of dominance.

    This midfield duo could become the heartbeat of Klopp’s—or his successor’s—Liverpool, dictating games and striking fear into even the toughest opposition.

    At just 26, Mac Allister seems to have no ceiling. And if Wirtz does arrive this summer, the two could form a generational pairing—one that could steer Liverpool into a new era of midfield supremacy.

  • Viktor Gyökeres’ Rejection Reignites Al-Hilal Chase for Darwin Núñez

    Viktor Gyökeres’ Rejection Reignites Al-Hilal Chase for Darwin Núñez

    Liverpool’s Transfer Deadline Drama: Nunez Future in the Balance

    The Uruguayan striker’s future at Anfield hangs in the balance as Saudi giants Al-Hilal intensify their efforts to secure a marquee signing before Tuesday’s transfer window closure.

    There’s a growing sense of urgency surrounding Núñez, who remains firmly in Al-Hilal’s crosshairs. The Saudi side is said to be desperate, especially after recent rejections from Bruno Fernandes and Victor Osimhen—both high-profile targets that slipped through their grasp.

    Núñez had bought into new head coach Arne Slot’s vision for the upcoming 2024/25 campaign. Yet, his output failed to impress—just seven goals across all competitions, a stark contrast to the 18 goals under Jürgen Klopp last season and *15 in his debut year in England. Despite the dip in form, Liverpool stood firm back in January, turning down Saudi approaches to avoid disrupting their Premier League title push.

    His last start came on March 8 against Southampton, where he also bagged his most recent goal. Since then, he’s struggled to make a tangible impact in the title race—raising fresh questions over his long-term role at Liverpool.

    According to talkSPORT, Liverpool’s No. 9 is now one of just two names being urgently pursued by Al-Hilal as they race against time to strengthen ahead of the Club World Cup.

    The Saudi club’s ambitious hunt has already seen snubs from Manchester United’s Fernandes and Napoli’s Osimhen—who, it’s worth noting, scored an eye-watering 37 goals while on loan at Galatasaray this past season. Osimhen himself had once been linked with a move to Anfield.

    Adding to Al-Hilal’s woes, A Bola reports that Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyökeres—another top-tier target—has also declined a move. The 27-year-old Swede, boasting a staggering 97 goals in 102 appearances over the past two seasons, is said to prefer a Premier League switch—keeping the door slightly ajar for Liverpool, who’ve been monitoring his situation.

    That said, the clock is ticking.

    With the Saudi deadline looming this Tuesday, Al-Hilal is scrambling to finalize deals in time for Club World Cup registration. This pressure could play right into Liverpool’s hands as they look to potentially cash in on Núñez—who arrived in 2022 for a hefty fee from Benfica.

    Meanwhile, Liverpool’s hierarchy isn’t panicking. Their immediate focus is on long-term targets like Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez. Once the window officially reopens on Monday, June 16, it’s expected that the Reds will turn their attention toward reinforcing their frontline.

    Until then, this is [Your Name], keeping you updated as the Núñez transfer saga develops in real-time. Stay tuned.

  • Liverpool Eye £100m Superstar Swoop to Form Dream Duo with Wirtz

    Liverpool Eye £100m Superstar Swoop to Form Dream Duo with Wirtz

    This just in from the transfer front: Liverpool are stepping up their summer business—and their latest target is turning heads across Europe.

    Liverpool set their sights on none other than Newcastle United’s prolific striker, Alexander Isak. The Swedish international, who is fresh off a sensational season, is now at the center of a potential blockbuster move.

    Isak, widely considered the Premier League’s most in-form striker, was instrumental in Newcastle’s Champions League qualification and their English League Cup triumph. With 27 goals last season, it’s no surprise he’s become one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe.

    According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, new Liverpool manager Arne Slot has placed Isak high on his wishlist. The 25-year-old’s consistent performances and clinical finishing have clearly caught the Dutchman’s attention.

    Former Reds legend Michael Owen didn’t hold back in his praise either, calling Isak a “top-class” striker who “would walk into any team.” And with Darwin Núñez managing just seven goals in all competitions last term, there’s a growing sense within Anfield that a reliable frontman is crucial if Liverpool want to stay competitive on all fronts.

    Now here’s where things get serious—Liverpool are reportedly ready to table a €120 million (£100m) offer. A bold move that could force Newcastle’s hand, though the Magpies are still keen to extend Isak’s stay on Tyneside.

    The big question: Can Liverpool convince Newcastle to part with their star forward? While Newcastle won’t want to lose their prized asset, the pull of playing for a European heavyweight like Liverpool, not to mention the chance to compete for Premier League and Champions League titles, might just sway Isak.

    As for the financial side, Liverpool are also lining up a club-record deal for Florian Wirtz. Pulling off two marquee signings in one window would be a statement of serious intent—but it raises questions about budget and priorities.

    One thing’s certain—we’ll be watching this story develop very closely. Stay tuned for updates as the Isak-to-Liverpool saga unfolds.

  • Who’s In, Who’s Out? Liverpool Trio Hint at Departures Amid Wirtz Pursuit

    Who’s In, Who’s Out? Liverpool Trio Hint at Departures Amid Wirtz Pursuit

    LIVE FROM ANFIELD – Transfer Season Heats Up as Liverpool’s Summer Reshuffle Kicks In

    With Arne Slot now at the helm of the Premier League champions, the squad is undergoing its first major reshaping since lifting the title—and it’s clear the club isn’t wasting any time.

    Liverpool have already secured the signatures of Jeremie Frimpong and Armin Pecsi, while Giorgi Mamardashvili is also finally arriving at Anfield after a £29 million deal with Valencia was sealed last year.

    But the real headline-grabber is the ongoing negotiation with Bayer Leverkusen over what could be a club-record move for Florian Wirtz. Sources close to the deal say talks are progressing steadily, while Liverpool are simultaneously pushing to land Milos Kerkez from AFC Bournemouth.

    And in a shake-up few expected this early, Trent Alexander-Arnold has officially signed for Real Madrid, while Caoimhin Kelleher has made a permanent move to Brentford.

    But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

    Transfer Rumours Swirling

    Plenty of speculation surrounds the futures of existing Reds stars. Liverpool have rejected an approach from Barcelona for Luis Diaz, standing firm on their desire to keep the Colombian winger. Still, the club has no current plans to offer him a new deal—even as Diaz himself admits he’s “in talks with other clubs.”

    Federico Chiesa has told reporters he’s open to staying put despite a limited role this season—but also hinted a return to Italy could appeal. Meanwhile, Harvey Elliott has again suggested he might explore new options, though Wataru Endo has committed his future to the club, saying he “will be here next season.”

    Andy Robertson, who earlier hinted he may consider his future amid Liverpool’s search for a new left-back, now says he plans to at least “see out his contract.” Alisson Becker expects the club to activate the one-year extension on his current deal.

    As for Ibrahima Konate, he’s entering the final year of his contract and has drawn outside interest, but he’s dismissed online talk as “completely fake.”

    Noises From the Fringe

    Elsewhere, Alexis Mac Allister has poured cold water on rumours linking him with a move, and Cody Gakpo is dodging questions about interest from Bayern Munich.

    Beyond the regular starters, names like Vitezslav Jaros, Joe Gomez, Kostas Tsimikas, Jarell Quansah, Tyler Morton, Darwin Nunez, and Diogo Jota have all come up in transfer speculation.

    The situation is less certain for returning loanees like Ben Doak, while players such as Nat Phillips and Rhys Williams are widely expected to move on.

    A Squad Squeeze Looms

    Here’s the key issue—Liverpool currently have 32 senior players over the age of 21, but regulations limit them to just 25 registered spots for both the Premier League and Champions League. That means more exits are inevitable before the transfer window slams shut at 11pm on Monday, September 1st.

    So, what’s the current lay of the land?

    Liverpool Squad Snapshot (as it stands)

    Goalkeepers: Alisson, Jaros, Davies, Mrozek, Mamardashvili

    Defenders: Gomez, Van Dijk, Konate, Tsimikas, Ramsay, Robertson, Williams, Phillips, Beck, Quansah, Bradley, Frimpong

    Midfielders: Endo, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Jones, Elliott, Gravenberch, Morton, Balagizi, Stephenson

    Forwards: Diaz, Nunez, Salah, Chiesa, Gakpo, Jota

    Selected U21s: Pecsi, Misciur, Chambers, Scanlon, Mabaya, Nallo, Bajcetic, McConnell, Morrison, Nyoni, Gordon, Doak, Kone-Doherty, Koumas, Ngumoha, Danns, Young

    This is a developing story, and we’ll be tracking every incoming and outgoing from Anfield throughout the summer. For now, the message is clear: Arne Slot is building—and trimming—with purpose.

    Stay with us for more updates as Liverpool’s transfer window drama continues to unfold.

    Let me know if you want this formatted as a press release, blog post, or newsletter instead!

  • £45m Ace Chooses Liverpool Over Man City in Stunning Transfer Twist

    £45m Ace Chooses Liverpool Over Man City in Stunning Transfer Twist

    In a stunning turn in the transfer market, Milos Kerkez has rejected a move to Manchester City in favour of joining Liverpool, sources confirm — a major win for Arne Slot as he shapes his squad ahead of next season.

    The Bournemouth left-back, a standout for both club and country, was on the radar of both Liverpool and Manchester City, but it’s the Merseyside club who are now in advanced talks to secure the Hungary international. According to TEAMtalk journalist Fraser Fletcher, Liverpool’s interest dates back to September, with Slot identifying Kerkez as his top choice for the left flank.

    Despite Manchester City’s long-standing pursuit, including ongoing interest revealed by FootMercato’s Sebastian Denis, the 20-year-old appears set for Anfield. Denis shared on X (formerly Twitter):

    “Milos Kerkez was a priority but the player is heading to Liverpool. Manchester City is pushing hard for Rayan Aït-Nouri.
    Understand that the Skyblues have already held talks with Wolverhampton and the Algerian international.”

    The shift comes as City, under Pep Guardiola, look to regroup after a comparatively underwhelming campaign. They had to fight until the final matchday just to clinch a Champions League spot for the 2025/26 season. Meanwhile, Liverpool, under the new leadership of Arne Slot, clinched the Premier League title in April, a stunning achievement in the Dutchman’s first year at the helm.

    According to TEAMtalk’s Rudy Galetti, Liverpool are “pushing” to finalise the deal swiftly, aware of a potential late bid from Bayern Munich. While Bournemouth reportedly value Kerkez at £45 million, insiders suggest Liverpool’s initial offer will come in below that mark. However, Bournemouth are in a strong negotiating position, having recently sold Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid for £50 million, and are under no pressure to let Kerkez go on the cheap.

    The i Paper has echoed these reports, adding that Kerkez’s personal preference is a move to Liverpool, effectively ending City’s pursuit and pushing them toward a serious play for Rayan Aït-Nouri.

    In related developments, Florian Wirtz has reportedly made his first major demand if he’s to consider a move to Liverpool, while one of Slot’s fringe players is understood to be nearing a departure from Anfield.

    With Liverpool moving decisively and Manchester City recalibrating, the summer transfer window is shaping up to be as fierce off the pitch as it was on it.

    Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to follow this developing story.

  • Liverpool Kick Off Summer Revolution with First of Five Blockbuster Signings – Announcement Coming TODAY

    Liverpool Kick Off Summer Revolution with First of Five Blockbuster Signings – Announcement Coming TODAY

    I can now confirm through two top sources that Liverpool will officially unveil Jeremie Frimpong as their newest signing today, Friday — marking the first of five incoming transfers this summer.

    After the departure of club icon Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid, despite Liverpool’s determined efforts to keep the 26-year-old, the club found itself in urgent need of a world-class replacement.

    And in true Liverpool fashion, they’ve acted with speed and precision.

    The Reds swiftly locked in personal terms with Frimpong, and the 24-year-old Dutchman has already passed his medical. The only thing left was triggering his €35 million release clause — and that, I’m told, is happening today.

    Taking to X this morning, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano dropped the bombshell:

    “Jeremie Frimpong deal, all signed and sealed with official announcement now imminent. Liverpool have their new right back for €35m.”

    That report was quickly echoed by Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, who added:

    “Jeremie Frimpong is a new player for FC Liverpool! The announcement of the deal is TODAY — everything is done and sealed.”

    Frimpong, known for his marauding runs and dynamic play down the right flank, becomes signing number one in what is shaping up to be a record-breaking transfer window for Liverpool.

    Kerkez, Wirtz, and More – A Summer Spending Spree in Full Swing

    Back in 2018, Liverpool’s biggest single-window investment totaled £172.05m, bringing in the likes of Alisson Becker, Fabinho, Naby Keita, and Xherdan Shaqiri.

    That number? About to be shattered.

    FSG — after years of measured spending — are now opening the coffers.

    The club has already agreed personal terms with Milos Kerkez, who is set to replace Andy Robertson at left-back. Talks with Bournemouth are underway, with the Cherries valuing the player at around £45m.

    But the most eye-catching deal? That’s undoubtedly Florian Wirtz — the German sensation and potential marquee arrival. You can follow ongoing developments on that saga right here on this channel.

    And it doesn’t stop there.

    According to The Daily Mail, Liverpool are targeting two more signings, bringing the summer total to five — signaling a new era under fresh direction and bold ambition at Anfield.

    Stay with us as we bring you the official announcement on Frimpong, and all the latest on Liverpool’s massive transfer moves.

  • ‘No One Saw It Coming’ – Mac Allister Shares How Gravenberch Shocked Liverpool

    ‘No One Saw It Coming’ – Mac Allister Shares How Gravenberch Shocked Liverpool

    Live from Anfield – reporting on Liverpool’s sensational Premier League-winning campaign under new manager Arne Slot.

    In what can only be described as a dream debut season, Arne Slot has led Liverpool to their 20th Premier League title, pulling off a stunning campaign with minimal changes to the squad. Aside from the arrival of Federico Chiesa, Slot largely relied on the core group left behind by Jurgen Klopp — and boy, did he get the best out of them.

    One of the standout aspects of this new era has been the individual resurgence of several players. Mohamed Salah spoke candidly about Slot’s influence, particularly noting how a shift in his role unlocked some of the best numbers of his Liverpool career.

    But perhaps the most unexpected transformation came from Ryan Gravenberch.

    Alexis Mac Allister: “We were surprised by Ryan’s level”

    The Dutch midfielder, brought in by Klopp in 2023 from Ajax, initially struggled in a central role. However, under Slot, everything changed. Slot made the bold call to shift Gravenberch into the number six position — a role many had not envisioned for him. The move paid off spectacularly.

    Speaking on The Anfield Wrap Podcast, Alexis Mac Allister revealed the squad’s reaction to Gravenberch’s rapid adaptation:

    “Yeah, definitely. I think everyone was surprised by Ryan’s level at the beginning. We knew what he could do, but it was a new position for him as well because we don’t play with a six, with a defensive six.”

    “So it was about finding that balance between Ryan and me — to attack and defend and do well. And as you said, Dom, an amazing player. He never gets tired.”

    Gravenberch became the anchor of the midfield, playing nearly every game of the Premier League season. His performances not only cemented his place in the squad — they earned him the Premier League Young Player of the Season award.

    Slot credits Mac Allister for the breakthrough idea

    Interestingly, the spark behind this tactical shift didn’t come from the manager alone. In an interview with Sky Sports, Slot revealed it was a preseason conversation with Alexis Mac Allister that got the ball rolling.

    “One of the things I spoke to most of the players [about], maybe to all of them in their summer break… Alexis said to me, and I also felt the same, that he has no problem playing as No. 6 – he did quite well the season before – but he prefers to play with a No. 6 behind him.”

    Slot added:

    “That’s also why we were interested in signing a No. 6, but Ryan came back one or two days earlier – I was hoping for more – and that way he could play the Manchester United game in that position.”

    What followed was a revelation. Slot recalled a specific moment from that United match:

    “There’s one moment where we played the ball to him and someone tried to press him. He just used his body to shield the ball, and the player didn’t see him again for a few seconds.”

    “It made me feel that this would be a good asset to have. We had to find out in the first few games if he was defensively strong enough – and he definitely was. He’s now one of the players with the most interceptions and all these kinds of stats.”

    A New Era Begins

    With Arne Slot at the helm and players like Gravenberch and Mac Allister thriving in reimagined roles, Liverpool have not only reclaimed the Premier League crown — they’ve ushered in a new era of intelligent, adaptive football. And if this first season is anything to go by, the Red Machine under Slot is only just getting started.