Liverpool will enter the 2025 summer transfer market in search of a new midfielder.
That was on the agenda for Arne Slot ahead of the 2024/25 campaign as Liverpool targetted Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi but the Spanish star opted to remain in La Liga for another season.
That turned out to be a blessing in disguise as Slot has improved Ryan Gravenberch to the point where the Dutch star is undroppable in the number six role at Anfield.
This may change Liverpool’s transfer plans for the upcoming summer as the Premier League leaders need to decide whether to bring in a proven number six or a prospect that can grow under Slot’s guidance.
That may have been decided within the last 24 hours, as two of the Reds’ targets have had big updates on their contract situations at their current clubs.
Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images
Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images
Frenkie de Jong receives new contract offer from Barcelona
Frenkie de Jong is a player Liverpool have admired for some time and with his contract at Barcelona expiring in 2026, many of Europe’s big clubs will have an eye in his situation.
The Dutch star has once again become a key player for the Spanish giants and it was recently reported that Barca head coach Hansi Flick has been pushing for the renewal of De Jong as the German coach sees the value in the midfielder.
Flick has seemingly got his wish as SPORT reports that have begun talks with the De Jong’s agents over a new deal, with the latest meeting occurring on February 19.
MORE LIVERPOOL STORIES
It is believed that the midfielder has been offered a new deal and will continue to receive the same salary at Barcelona that he is currently on, which is around £16m per year.
This is not the only blow Liverpool have received as another potential target needs to be crossed off of their summer shopping list.
Bayern Munich and Joshua Kimmich reach an agreement over a new contract
Liverpool have been heavily linked to Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich in recent weeks with the Reds even holding talks with the midfielder’s representatives as uncertainty over his future grew.
It looked certain that Kimmich would leave Bayern Munich after the German giants withdrew their contract offer last week, however, things have changed in Bavaria.
According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Bayern have reached an agreement with Kimmich over a new deal until 2029.
The 30-year-old is set to sign his new contract this week after considering a proposal from PSG, but the rumours over his future have now been put to bed.
🚨🔴 BREAKING | Total verbal agreement between FC Bayern and Joshua #Kimmich on a new contract until 2029!
Green light from the entire Bayern board. Final paperwork is in progress. Contracts are set to be signed this week, with the announcement planned soon.
Kimmich will extend… pic.twitter.com/dujxld6GNv
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) March 6, 2025
View Tweet
Both these updates will likely influence what Liverpool will do with their midfield ahead of the 2025/26 campaign with a younger star the more likely route the Reds go down.
Someone such as Southampton’s Tyler Dibling could be a good option, but Slot may already have a target in mind having fully assessed his squad.