Arne Slot has been prevented from completing Jurgen Klopp’s ideal signing for Liverpool.
The Dutchman is set to become Liverpool’s next manager after reports indicated a compensation fee of up to £9.4 million was agreed with Feyenoord.
Slot is poised to replace Jurgen Klopp, who announced in January that he would leave Anfield at the end of the current campaign. The 45-year-old led Feyenoord to the 2022-23 Eredivisie title and this season, they won the Dutch Cup and are on course to finish second in the league.
Slot’s attacking style, personality, and ability to develop players have made him Liverpool’s top choice to succeed Klopp. However, according to a recent Athletic report, Slot will be blocked from signing a player Klopp has long admired upon taking over at Anfield.
Klopp has reportedly been very keen on Barcelona star Gavi, with Spanish radio station El Nacional reporting in April 2022 that the German coach had “become obsessed” with securing the midfielder.
The Athletic claims that while Barcelona is looking to make significant sales this summer, three players—Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, and Gavi—are considered “untouchable.” One player who might leave, however, is Robert Lewandowski, who, despite scoring 23 goals this season, has been linked with moves to the Saudi Pro League and MLS.
On Lewandowski’s future, Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez said: “I am not going to speak about anyone’s future as I don’t think it’s helpful for us. I am happy with Robert.
The work he does for the team is extraordinary, he is an outstanding footballer and an example for the dressing room in how he conducts himself. That’s why he scored a hat-trick. I am delighted for him.”
