Arne Slot could receive just what he needs at Liverpool if a ‘inhuman’ transfer target returns to Anfield, resulting in a reunion with his old coach.
Arne Slot will not dictate Liverpool’s transfer policy this summer, but he will undoubtedly be engaged. And for those making the final judgements, the ultimate goal will undoubtedly be to assemble a group that gives the next head coach the best chance of success.
As a result, Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes will collaborate closely with Slot, likely listening to any advice he may have. In fact, one of the players he has previously worked with was already on Liverpool’s transfer radar last summer.
Bringing in a player he knows well could be just what Slot needs as he tries to impress his views on a fresh bunch that has only known Jurgen Klopp for the past eight and a half years. That is one of several ticks next to Teun Koopmeiners’ name.
Bringing in a player he knows well could be just what Slot needs as he tries to impress his views on a fresh bunch that has only known Jurgen Klopp for the past eight and a half years. That is one of several ticks next to Teun Koopmeiners’ name.
The Atalanta midfielder, like Frenkie de Jong, was forced to depart the Netherlands camp due to injury on the eve of Euro 2024. However, the Europa League champion has already done more than enough to impress potential suitors without having to perform on the international stage.
Koopmeiners was outstanding against Klopp’s Liverpool, helping Atalanta to a stunning victory at Anfield. The Reds had been keeping an eye on him before that, having been connected with him the previous year, but Slot knows more about the Dutchman than almost anybody else, having coached him at AZ, where the 26-year-old made his debut.
Pascal Jansen is a coach who has worked with Slot and Koopmeiners at Arizona. He provided a positive appraisal of the midfielder: “His stamina is amazing,” he recently told Sky Sports, albeit the interview appears to have been withdrawn following Koopmeiners’ horrific injury, which forced him out of the Euros. “His pressing and chasing abilities when out of possession, I would almost say they are inhuman.”
Perhaps it’s no surprise that Klopp had a peek last year. But these characteristics are as crucial for Slot, and the extra familiarity of Koopmeiners would be a huge plus.
There are questions regarding where he might fit into Liverpool’s midfield. He has played as a number six, but he usually shines further forward, with a profile comparable to Alexis Mac Allister. However, having won the midfield battle against the Reds just months ago, Koopmeiners would at the very least bring some quality depth, which will be critical as Slot seeks to contend on numerous fronts.
According to Liverpool.com, Koopmeiners’ position is really his only disadvantage. That versatile midfield profile was heavily addressed last summer, and Slot may now prefer to sign a specialist.
However, his experience with Koopmeiners adds to the appeal of the move, and there is no doubt that his characteristics correspond to the way Slot and Liverpool prefer to play. It would be risky to devote a significant portion of the funds to him ahead of other, more pressing requirements, but his presence would be a true luxury.
