Welcome to our live coverage as Liverpool's search for a new manager to replace Jurgen Klopp continues.
The Reds have been busy preparing for next season after Klopp announced in January that he would be stepping down from his role at the end of the season. Since then, speculation has been swirling as to who could be his replacement in the Anfield dugout.
Feyenoord boss Arne Slot has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Klopp at the end of the season. Liverpool have already opened talks over the possibility of bringing Slot to Merseyside to become the next manager of the Reds.
Slot has been identified as the ideal candidate to be Klopp's successor at Liverpool, but there is still work to be done before an agreement can be reached. The ECHO will be providing regular updates on the Reds' quest to appoint Klopp's replacement, which you can follow right here with our dedicated live blog.
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Arne Slot bluntly explains why he expects to become next Liverpool boss
Arne Slot has confirmed that he expects Liverpool to reach an agreement with Feyenoord within a few days.
The Reds opened talks with the Dutch club on Wednesday as they ramped up efforts to appoint a successor to Jurgen Klopp, who is already confirmed to be leaving the club at the end of the season.
Slot has already admitted that he would like to replace the German at Anfield, with it now down to the two clubs to agree a compensation package.
Feyenoord beat Go Ahead Eagles 3-1 on Thursday night, with Slot’s future inevitable the main talking point after the game.
Speaking to NOS Sports after the final whistle, the 45-year-old offered an update on Liverpool’s pursuit of him as he reiterated his hope for Feyenoord to agree a deal with the Reds.
Jurgen Klopp sends clear message to Arne Slot
Jurgen Klopp has spoken out on the possibility of Arne Slot replacing him as Liverpool manager.
“So I didn’t read anythingbut Tony (Barrett, press officer) told me that Arne said something,” said Klopp. “I don’t know anything about it. Not involved in the process (of appointing his successor) just to clarify that.
"I like a lot about it, if he is the one, he wants to take the job. Really. Is desperate. 'Come on, let’s go for it. Excited'.
“I like the way his team play football. All the things I hear about him as a guy, a good guy. Some people I know know him, I don’t know him yet. Some people tell me that he is a really good guy. I like that a lot.
"Good coach, good guy. Looking forward for the club if he is the solution or the man. I’m more than happy. It’s not up to me to judge these things but it all sounds really good to me.”
Jamie Carragher explains Arne Slot concern
Jamie Carragher has warned Liverpool of the risks they may be taking if they appoint Arne Slot as the club's next manager.
"If Klopp was in charge next season, Liverpool would move forward and challenge again at home and in Europe," he wrote in his column for The Telegraph. "With Slot, that absolute belief will give way to hope.
"That’s not intended in any way as a criticism of the incoming Dutchman. Once Klopp announced he was going and Xabi Alonso ruled himself out, Liverpool’s options were limited.
"No matter how brilliant Slot is – and no one wins a league title or leads a side to a European final without serious credentials – the next coach was always going to be highly regarded, but not one to necessarily get pulses racing. There is no one available to replicate Klopp’s aura, authority and natural connection with the supporters – that ‘X-factor’ which is so elusive.
"Since the Slot news broke, I have heard and read many perspectives suggesting that the choice makes sense tactically and how the data regarding Feynoord’s style makes him a natural fit. Slot is an appointment made with the head rather than the heart. Klopp’s appeal was to the head and heart."
Arne Slot deal expected imminently as Feyenoord want transfer record fee
Arne Slot says he expects to net Feyenoord a new transfer record as Liverpool continue to negotiate for his release to replace Jurgen Klopp, writes Paul Gorst.
And the in-demand coach believes an agreement will be reached imminently as the Reds close in on the man to succeed Klopp.
Liverpool have identified the Dutchman as the right man to follow on from the outgoing Klopp at the end of the campaign and stepped up their efforts to bring him to Anfield earlier this week.
Slot does not have a buyout clause in his contract and it's believed the Eredivisie club turned down an initial offer of around £7.7m this week and are holding out for somewhere closer to the £10-£12m mark.
Arne Slot inspirational team talk went viral as Liverpool get hint
Ever since the news emerged that Arne Slot was a contender to be the next Liverpool manager, fans have begun doing their research on who exactly could be taking charge of their side next season. As a result, a video has surfaced on social media that shows a famous team talk from Slot.
In March last year, Slot guided Feyenoord to a famous 3-2 win over Ajax in the Eredivisie. The victory played a key role in his side beating the Dutch giants to the league title last season, which was the first time that the club had won away against their bitter rivals since 2005.
Arne Slot speaks out on Liverpool manager links
Liverpool managerial target Arne Slot has confirmed that he wants to become the new Reds boss.
On Thursday, Feyenoord hosted Go Ahead Eagles in the Eredivisie as they looked to cut away at the deficit to runaway Rleaders PSV Eindhoven. As it stands, Slot is under contract in Rotterdam until 2026 but it is understood that he would welcome the opportunity to make the move to the Premier League.
Speaking ahead of their clash in Deventer, he made his Liverpool intentions clear.
"It's no secret that I want to go to Liverpool," said Slot. "The clubs are negotiating. We have to wait until an agreement is reached, but I have every confidence in that."
Carragher makes 'fallen out' claim
Jamie Carragher has explained why he believes Jurgen Klopp may have 'fallen out' with Michael Edwards ahead of his Liverpool exit.
Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, the former Red defender said: "What's really interesting here is Michael Edwards, the sporting director, was there at the start with Klopp but they've obviously fallen out for whatever reason and a lot of his team have moved on.
"As soon as Klopp's gone it's like the band are back together. It's obvious something has happened behind the scenes. The owners FSG felt it was more important to get that structure back rather than who the next manager is.
"There is no way Michael Edwards is coming back and not having all the power to run this club. He's not even in the same role, he's in a bigger role as they're going to try and buy other clubs. My worry going forward is that the manager, whoever they bring in will just be a coach..."
'Secret meeting' held with Premier League boss
According to Danish publication Tipsbladet, Liverpool have 'held a meeting' with Thomas Frank's entourage regarding the prospective head coach vacancy at Anfield this summer. The report states that the Reds have been 'considering' the Brentford boss for 'a while'.
Tipsbladet add that Chelsea spoke with the Dane last summer, while he remains on the radars of Manchester United and Everton. Frank has steered Brentford clear of a relegation scrap despite missing Ivan Toney for a large majority of the season.
Klopp apologises
Jurgen Klopp apologised to Liverpool supporters following his side's disappointing performance against Everton on Wednesday night. Goals in each half from Jarrad Branthwaite and Dominic Calvert-Lewin consigned Liverpool to a Merseyside derby defeat that is likely to be a devastating blow to their Premier League title chances.
"It’s 2-0, the atmosphere, we played like we played," said Klopp. "Obviously not the most inspired performance of all times. I really feel for the people, I am really sorry for that. That’s how it is.
"People told me so often about the great record, especially before the derby, but you never win here. But we never lost and that feels really different. I really apologise for that. It was absolutely unnecessary but it happened. We cannot change it anymore."
Virgil van Dijk responds...
Virgil van Dijk has backed Arne Slot to succeed Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool manager. The Reds defender told ViaPlay: "I think Slot is one of the better Dutch coaches at the moment.
"With the way he plays and the philosophy he has, he can be a Liverpool coach. But I read and hear that it is far from complete. We shall see. We will focus on that next season, but that is still a long way off."
Slot described as 'the perfect fit' for Liverpool!
Sander Westerveld believes Arne Slot is 'the perfect fit' to succeed Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool manager. The former Liverpool goalkeeper told The Times: "When I played with Arne at Sparta, you could see that he would become a coach.
"He was a leader, a No10 midfielder and someone who would change tactics by himself. I spoke to him this morning and he just said it is not a secret that Liverpool wants him but that he could not say anything. I hope it will happen.
"The job he has done at Feyenoord makes him the perfect fit for Liverpool… When he signed for Feyenoord they sold the best player, Steven Berghuis, to Ajax and they didn’t have lots of money to spend."
Read the full story HERE...
Slot warned of a mass exodus
Speaking to Dutch outlet VoetbalPrimeur, Ryan Babel claimed numerous staff could leave with Jurgen Klopp this summer. As quoted by the Mirror, the former Liverpool star said: "Apart from Klopp, I understand that at least forty more people within the club are leaving.
"From kitchen people to staff and analysts. A trainer who comes has to replace that, and that doesn't seem easy to me," Babel told VoetbalPrimeur."
Babel later clarified that the people set to leave Anfield had been brought to Anfield by Klopp. He tweeted: "Any manager having the desire to take the #LFC job has to know that it has to bring more than just a coaching staff to the club.
"More than 30 people behind the scenes who Klopp brought in, who were a MAJOR part of #LFC success over the years are leaving too. Tough job."
Why Slot snubbed Spurs...
After leading Feyenoord to their first Eredivisie title in six years last season, the 45-year-old was heavily linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur before opting to sign a three-year contract extension at De Kuip.
Speaking to the official club website, Slot explained why he snubbed Spurs. He said: "I'm not done here yet. We have had a wonderful season with Feyenoord, with the championship as a wonderful reward for all the hard work that has been put in, but I really want to continue building.
"After the summer, an adventure awaits in the Champions League and there is a national title to defend. Enough to look forward to, so I am proud to be and remain Feyenoord's trainer in Rotterdam."
Slot deal 'could happen soon'
Sky Sports have claimed a Liverpool deal for Arne Slot could be wrapped up promptly. As reported by the ECHO, it says discussions remain ongoing and meanwhile adds that an agreement could made 'soon' with the Reds prepared to fork out amicable compensation for the Dutchman.
"It seems Liverpool are prepared to go that extra mile"
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 25, 2024
Gary Cotterill reports that Arne Slot's appointment at Liverpool is 'on the cards' and could happen soon pic.twitter.com/pUfBJg1DBy
When Arne Slot left Jose Mourinho raging
Arne Slot has previously made clear he is a man unafraid to speak his mind.
Slot, who is the current frontrunner to replace Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool manager, faced off against AS Roma with his Feyenoord side in the quarter-finals of last season's Europa League and was involved in a heated exchange with Jose Mourinho.
The two clubs had gone head-to-head in the previous year's Europa Conference League final and were paired up against each other once again last term as they both battled for a place in the last four of Europe's second-tier competition.
ANALYSIS: Slot’s first three jobs if appointed Liverpool boss
To say Feyenoord boss Arne Slot is unestablished would be unfair given his Dutch Cup success at the weekend and his Eredivisie title success last year, but he would certainly be required to answer a few extra questions.
Slot has been hailed as boasting a silver tongue, something that he will need to utilise when discussing the futures of a number of players as he vies to make an instant impact on Merseyside.
Arguably Liverpool’s most important three players are out of contract next year and Slot would be required to convince Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah to stay.
Slot's last 10 signings - what they could mean for Liverpool
Arne Slot would arrive at Liverpool with his own transfer plans, which he will have to dovetail with the financial picture the board gives him.
Liverpool have to contend with Premier League Profit & Sustainability Rules (PSR) as much as any other club and the Reds no longer have the magnetic transfer draw of Jurgen Klopp as manager.
Slot has had to contend with lower and tighter finances at Feyenoord and is used to making the pound go as far as possible. His 10 latest signings could indicate his mindset, if he is to be appointed Liverpool boss.
Van Dijk casts verdict on Slot links
Virgil van Dijk has described Arne Slot as a manager who is capable of succeeding Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool, although underlined that any decision is still some way off.
The ECHO understands that talks with Feyenoord over a deal for Slot are ongoing with the Reds making him their preferred choice.
Speaking to Viaplay, club captain Van Dijk gave his thoughts on the developments.
"I find it hard to answer of course, but I think Arne Slot is perhaps one of the better Dutch coaches at this moment.
"I think the way of playing and the philosophy he has, that he could be a Liverpool coach.
"Only I think from what I read and hear is that it's still far from being completed. We shall see."
Five reasons why Slot is perfect for Liverpool
Liverpool have been given an insight into how Feyenoord boss Arne Slot would adapt to taking over the Reds.
The club are searching for Jurgen Klopp's replacement and Slot is one of the most recent names to be linked with the upcoming vacancy at Anfield.
The ECHO understands that Slot has emerged as a leading contender for the job and that Liverpool have opened negotiations with Feyenoord.
Slot led Feyenoord to the Eredivisie title last season, the club's first since 2017, and has claimed the KNVB Cup this term.
How Liverpool could line up under Slot with three transfers
Slot will inevitably wish to sign his own targets as well as convince Liverpool's star players to remain at Anfield.
The Reds have been invovled in a title race this year and his job will be to ensure that there is not a grave fall-off next season.
Slot will be eager to make a good first impression and show his intent, and his first signings will be important in terms of fan perception. The ECHO has taken a look at three possible arrivals this summer.
Slot alternative suggested
While the jury is still out on how Liverpool fans would take to Slot, an alternative option has been put forward by one analsyst.
Paulo Fonseca is fighting for a Champions League spot with Lille in French Ligue 1 this season. He is out of contract this summer and is expected to move on.
Fonseca won three domestic titles with Ukrainian outfit Shakhtar Donetsk between 2016 and 2019 before reaching the Europa League semi-finals with Roma in his first season.
Slot has explained why he wants Liverpool move
Arne Slot has been very outspoken about his future ambitions and Liverpool might have come across the Dutchman at the right time.
Slot was previously linked with Leeds United and Tottenham, albeit the coach made it clear he was not keen on moving mid-season.
"The moment in the middle of the season, where you still have so much to play for at Feyenoord, I didn't think that was a good time to leave for England,” he said last year.
The start date for the next Liverpool coach is in the summer - so that's the first of two advantages for the Reds in their pursuit of Slot.
Carragher sends warning to Slot
Jamie Carragher has warned Arne Slot that it will be a "huge jump" to move to Liverpool from Feyenoord.
Appearing on Sky Sports yesterday, the former Liverpool defender said:
"What I would say from Feyenoord to Liverpool is a huge jump and I think it shows in this moment a lack of real top managers out there when you look at who Liverpool were going for.
"Initially probably Xabi Alonso but it was only his first full season as a manager. There was talk of Amorin from Sporting Lisbon but he’s only 39.
"[Liverpool] fancy themselves to challenge for the Premier League next season and the Champions League, they will be expected to reach the quarter-finals at least. I think it is a huge jump, he’s obviously a great coach and has a good track record with the clubs he has had so far, so we will see."
What has Slot said about his future?
Arne Slot has not been shy about his admiration of the Premier League and has previously said that his next coaching job will be outside of the Netherlands.
He signed a new deal with Feyenoord last season but admitted that there are some clubs you "can't say 'no' to".
"My next step will not be a club in Holland. If that is my next step, then I've failed completely.
"The normal next step will be to go abroad and I've always said the best league in the world is the Premier League."
What we know about Slot talks
Liverpool have opened talks with Feyenoord over a possible hiring of their manager Arne Slot, who lifted the Dutch cup four days ago.
The 45-year-old is the club's current preferred choice and the hierarchy are now talking to Feyenoord CEO Dennis te Kloese to thrash out terms of a deal.
The Dutch outfit are looking for around €10m in compensation for Slot, who won the Eredivisie title last season amid prior interest from Leeds United and Tottenham.
A switch to Anfield is by no means a formality with Bayern Munich also keeping tabs but Liverpool's healthy relationship with representative Rafaela Pimenta - the agent of Erling Haaland - is likely to make talks go smoother.
