Liverpool's new head coach Arne Slot is preparing for a busy summer transfer window with two exciting targets identified to bolster his squad. The Dutch tactician, who recently took over at Anfield, has set his sights on Bayer Leverkusen's wonderkid Florian Wirtz and Paris Saint-Germain's young striker Hugo Ekitike.
Wirtz: The Bundesliga Prodigy
Florian Wirtz has emerged as one of European football's most coveted talents after a sensational season with Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder contributed 18 goals and 19 assists across all competitions, playing a pivotal role in their historic unbeaten domestic campaign.
Liverpool face stiff competition for Wirtz's signature, with Manchester City and Bayern Munich also monitoring the situation. However, the Reds hope Slot's reputation for developing young talent could give them an edge in negotiations.
Ekitike: PSG's Forgotten Man
Hugo Ekitike's potential move represents an intriguing opportunity for Liverpool. The 22-year-old French striker has struggled for game time at PSG since his €35m move from Reims, making just 12 Ligue 1 appearances last season.
Slot sees Ekitike as a promising project who could provide depth behind Darwin Nunez and Mohamed Salah. His pace and technical ability would suit Liverpool's high-intensity style, while his relatively low profile means he could be available at a reasonable price.
Summer of Change at Anfield
These potential signings signal Slot's intention to put his own stamp on the Liverpool squad following Jurgen Klopp's departure. The club is expected to be active in the transfer market as they look to bridge the gap to champions Manchester City.
With several senior players entering the final years of their contracts, Liverpool's recruitment team are working to identify both established stars and emerging talents who can grow under Slot's management.