On Monday, Liverpool marked the beginning of a new era by appointing Arne Slot as Jurgen Klopp’s successor. With the transfer window about to open, the club is gearing up to reclaim their dominance in both domestic and European competitions next season.
According to Turkish news outlet Footballwave, Liverpool has unexpectedly entered the race for Benfica’s highly-rated midfielder Orkun Kökcü. The 23-year-old Turkish international, who previously played under Slot at Feyenoord, has been making headlines in Portugal.
Kökcü has impressed at Benfica, scoring seven goals and providing eleven assists this season. Despite Benfica’s significant €25 million investment to sign him from Feyenoord a year ago, he has fallen out of favor with manager Roger Schmidt, making a summer departure likely.
Primarily a number ten, Kökcü is a versatile midfielder capable of playing in various positions. A potential reunion with Slot at Anfield is possible as Kökcü looks for a new challenge away from Estadio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica.
However, a major obstacle in this transfer is Kökcü’s release clause, reportedly set at £128 million, which presents a significant financial challenge for Liverpool.
Slot’s interest in Kökcü is clear. The midfielder was crucial to Slot’s success at Feyenoord, where he played a key role in securing the club’s first league title in six years. Bringing a familiar and proven talent like Kökcü to Liverpool could be a strategic move for Slot.
Liverpool needs a creative midfielder who can play as a number ten, contributing goals and assists. Kökcü fits this profile perfectly, but the club will need to negotiate a feasible transfer fee to bring him to Anfield.
