David Ornstein has provided an update on Liverpool’s summer transfer plans ahead of yet another important window for Arne Slot.
David Ornstein: Liverpool to continue investing in squad this summer
David Ornstein has provided an update on Liverpool’s summer transfer plans. It has been a season defined as much by what is ending as by what has gone wrong on the pitch.
For all the turbulence – the poor Premier League form, the fifth-place scramble, the very public falling out between manager and star player – Fenway Sports Group have made their position clear: Arne Slot remains their man.
Despite intense scrutiny following a chastening domestic campaign, Liverpool’s ownership are said to believe the Dutchman deserves time and backing to see through what was always going to be a difficult squad transition.
David Ornstein has now said as much but also maintains that Liverpool will continue investing in the squad this summer. Speaking to NBC Sports, he said:
“The intention of the club and Fenway Sports Group is to stick with Arne Slot into next season and give him longer.”
“He’s on a contract until 2027. I think they feel there are clear mitigations. The transition work was always going to be huge after Jurgen Klopp’s departure and the transfer windows across the course of all of Slot’s windows is four now.”
“The net spend is about £150m, even though last summer was really high, and I think they plan to continue investing because they see this as a developing project and squad.”
“There are more signings no doubt on the way. They feel there are three to four first-team players that are needed for them to be really competitive again.”
“We know that a wide player, because of Salah’s departure and also how Diaz wasn’t replaced, will also be high on the agenda.”
The departures of two such totemic figures in Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salahs leaves gaping holes on either flank. Replacing Salah’s unique blend of pace, goals and relentless pressing on the right will be the most pressing priority, with reports suggesting Liverpool are actively pursuing two wingers this summer, with RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande among the names on their radar.
The left side must also be addressed, with Milos Kerkez – signed last summer – now the incumbent, but the need for genuine competition and cover remains. Creativity and dynamism out wide will be non-negotiable.