Liverpool have been linked with numerous players since the transfer window opened at the start of June.
Indeed, the Reds have already added five new players to their ranks so far, but with the way things are heading, it doesn’t feel likely that they’re going to be stopping there.
Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz are both on the cusp of exiting Anfield, which would not only give them some more money to spend but would also leave them with a couple more gaps to fill within Arne Slot’s first-team squad.
Arne Slot with his hand over his eyes during the PSV v Liverpool Champions League clash.
Photo by Rene Nijhuis/MB Media/Getty Images
However, it isn’t an attacker who seems to have snubbed Liverpool.
Orkun Kokcu snubs Liverpool interest for a move to Besiktas
Over the last couple of days, Benfica’s Orkun Kokcu has been linked with a move to Liverpool.
The Turkey international was previously managed by Slot during their time together at Feyenoord.
Kokcu played some of his best football under the Dutchman, and it’s clear that he made a lasting impact.
However, as per a new report from Fabrizio Romano, it seems like Kokcu has chosen Besiktas as his next destination.
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“Orkun Kökçü has informed Benfica of his desire: he wants to join Besiktas,” Romano wrote via his personal X account.
“Negotiations starting between Besiktas and Benfica as clubs already discussed details of the move.
“Kökçü to Besiktas, getting closer.”
🚨🦅 Orkun Kökçü has informed Benfica of his desire: he wants to join Besiktas.
Negotiations starting between Besiktas and Benfica as clubs already discussed details of the move.
Kökçü to Besiktas, getting closer. 🤍🖤 pic.twitter.com/BrDql5pht0
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 9, 2025
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Why Liverpool may have wanted to sign Orkun Kokcu this summer
As with every team in football, Liverpool are always looking for ways to improve their ranks.
And, while Ryan Gravenberch may have had an impressive campaign as Liverpool’s defensive midfielder last season, that doesn’t mean it wouldn’t be good for him to have some competition.
At the moment, Wataru Endo is Slot’s second-choice and, although the Japan international is often brought on towards the end of a game to keep hold of a win, it feels unlikely that he’d be able to play 90-minute games each week.
This then leaves Gravenberch as the Dutchman’s only option.
Ryan Gravenberch of Liverpool looks on prior to the Premier League match between Leicester City FC and Liverpool FC at The King Power Stadium
Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
As mentioned, Slot has previously managed the Turkey international and with football scout Ben Mattinson complimenting his “elite” passing recently, it’s clear to see why the Dutchman wanted him.
However, it was evidently not meant to be, and although the Reds may need a new defensive midfielder in the future, losing out on Kokcu isn’t really the end of the world.