Liverpool are nonetheless curious about a long-term goal – who may trigger controversy had been he to affix.
Arne Slot has up to now solely made two signings at Anfield. Giorgi Mamardashvili will formally hyperlink up with the Reds subsequent summer season, whereas Federico Chiesa has solely performed 78 minutes – and may already be on the best way out.
However Slot’s subsequent signing might be somebody he is aware of extraordinarily nicely, with the hearsay mill linking him together with his former captain from Feyenoord.
Liverpool linked with €50 million midfield maestro
Liverpool had been closely linked with midfield reinforcement over the summer season however reneged on signing anybody once they had been turned down by their high goal.
Martin Zubimendi was most critically rumoured, just for the Spaniard to stay at Actual Sociedad – however now, the Reds may pursue an analogous profile of central midfield No.6 in Orkun Kokcu of Benfica.
Kokcu was an integral member of Slot’s aspect that reached the inaugural Europa Convention League ultimate, captaining the Dutch group alongside the best way from a deep-lying place – and now Sport Witness have relayed claims from the star’s father that he may make the swap after SportBild famous a €50 million transfer might be within the works.
However the controller has acquired criticism, too, following his controversial determination to not shun carrying a rainbow captain’s armband, which the Eredivisie introduced in to help LGBTQ+ inclusion.
This might see him conflict with some followers on Merseyside, provided that Liverpool have a dedication to inclusion, with captain Jordan Henderson and ex-manager Jurgen Klopp each praised prior to now for his or her allyship in the direction of the neighborhood. Jordan Henderson, by the way, upset lots of people when he selected to play in Saudi Arabia, with Satisfaction in Soccer stating that his presence within the league may do extra hurt than good.
“I keep near my faith,” Kokcu informed ESPN of his determination to refuse the gesture. “However I additionally perceive the reactions from the surface on the one hand.”
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In FourFourTwo’s opinion, Liverpool’s LGBTQ+ followers might be cautious of the membership signing gamers who do not align with their values – however it’s possible ought to Kokcu be part of, he can be given the good thing about the doubt and the help of the entire membership. As for the rumours themselves, they may nicely carry some weight given the Slot connection – although €50m could also be some huge cash to pay for a participant but to seem in Europe’s high 5 leagues.
Liverpool tackle Arsenal this weekend when Premier League motion returns.