Liverpool manager Arne Slot is set to overhaul his attacking lineup this summer, focusing on creating his ideal front three. Despite not having made any new signings since his appointment, Slot’s primary target remains Napoli’s standout striker, Victor Osimhen.
Despite interest from several top European clubs, Osimhen remains at Napoli, primarily because of the club’s high asking price. Napoli owner Aurelio De Laurentiis is reportedly demanding over £110 million for the 25-year-old striker, a sum that would surpass Liverpool’s transfer record. However, Liverpool’s American owners, FSG, are prepared to back Slot with the required funds to bolster the squad following Jurgen Klopp’s departure.
Osimhen, who scored 15 goals in 25 Serie A matches last season, could be the marquee signing that showcases Liverpool’s ambition under Slot. The Nigerian striker has shown interest in joining Liverpool, impressed by the terms discussed in October 2023. With PSG hesitant to meet Napoli’s high asking price, this creates an opening for Liverpool to secure Osimhen’s transfer.
To fund the acquisition of Osimhen, Liverpool might need to offload some of their current players. One potential candidate for sale is Darwin Nunez. Despite his strong performances for Uruguay at the Copa America, Nunez has struggled to live up to expectations at Liverpool, netting only 20 goals in 65 Premier League appearances since joining in 2022. Erling Haaland, in contrast has scored 43 more goals during the same period, underscoring Nunez’s disappointing impact.
Slot is reportedly looking to offload Nunez to make space for Osimhen, but finding a buyer outside of Saudi Arabia could prove difficult. PSG has been mentioned as a potential destination for Nunez if they are unable to secure Osimhen.
Another pressing issue for Slot is Mohamed Salah’s future. With just one year remaining on his contract, Salah could leave on a free transfer in the summer of 2025 unless Liverpool opts to sell him this year. Slot is already exploring potential replacements, with Japanese winger Takefusa Kubo emerging as a leading candidate.
Kubo, currently at Real Sociedad, is reportedly in advanced talks with Liverpool, who are ready to trigger his £50 million release clause. Liverpool midfielder Wataru Endo has endorsed Kubo as a suitable successor to Salah, adding credibility to the speculation about his potential move to Anfield.
While Liverpool fans might fantasize about high-profile signings like Vinicius Junior or Kylian Mbappe, both are considered indispensable by Real Madrid. Kubo, however, provides a practical solution with his creative flair and goal-scoring ability, making him a strong candidate to replace Salah.
Slot’s plans for overhauling Liverpool’s attack showcase his ambition to construct a team capable of competing for major honors. By targeting top talents like Osimhen and Kubo, Slot aims to create a dynamic and potent frontline that can drive Liverpool to success in the coming seasons.
