Stepping up their game, Michael Edwards has reportedly dispatched scouts to Portugal to observe a potential Liverpool transfer target in action this week, as he strategically plans a major move to secure the player’s signature in 2025.
While Liverpool has been relatively quiet in the transfer market compared to other Premier League clubs, it’s evident that Edwards and the new sporting director, Richard Hughes, made the right decision not to rush into panic buys. With just two new additions in Federico Chiesa and Giorgi Mamardashvili, who were loaned back to Valencia immediately, Liverpool currently leads the Premier League under the management of Arne Slot.
One of the most remarkable aspects has been Arne Slot’s utilization of Ryan Gravenberch. Previously struggling to find his footing under Jurgen Klopp, who was unsure of his best position, Gravenberch’s career at Anfield has been revitalized under Slot’s guidance, poised to make headline after headline.
At just 22 years old, Gravenberch has emerged as a surprising solution to Liverpool’s defensive midfield issues after missing out on Martin Zubimendi in the summer. Now, he might find a fine midfield partner in 2025.
According to Record via Sport Witness, Edwards has deployed Liverpool scouts to watch Orkun Kokcu in action for Benfica against his former club Feyenoord in the Champions League. In Portugal, if the scouts are impressed, Liverpool could escalate their pursuit of a player who has already shined under Slot’s management.
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He’s on fire so far this season.
Despite Kokcu’s daunting €150m (£125m) release clause, reports suggest that Benfica may entertain offers significantly below that mark, around €50m (£42m) to part ways with the midfielder.
Described as a player with “elite passing” by analyst Ben Mattinson in 2023, Kokcu has lived up to that praise this season, nearly matching Gravenberch’s performances. With Slot aiming to mold Liverpool into a team known for control, Kokcu could be the perfect addition.
“Elite” Kokcu can partner Gravenberch
In the summer of 2023, Liverpool faced a midfield crisis but could potentially have a star-studded midfield lineup by the following summer, including Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Jones, Endo, Elliott, and Kokcu. While the midfield rebuilding process was not without challenges, it promises unexpected success within a two-year period.
Kokcu would be a fitting reward for Slot, who had great success with his former Feyenoord captain in the Netherlands. Teaming up with Gravenberch, Slot’s Liverpool side seems poised for even greater achievements.
League stats 24/25 (via FBref)
Orkun Kokcu
Ryan Gravenberch
Starts
7
8
Progressive Carries
11
20
Progressive Passes
48
52
Ball Recoveries
29
48
In conclusion, the potential addition of Orkun Kokcu to Liverpool’s midfield could be a game-changer for the club under Arne Slot’s management. With a strong partnership alongside Ryan Gravenberch, the future looks bright for the Reds. For more trending news articles like this, visit DeFi Daily News.
