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Paul Merson stresses the importance of Liverpool retaining two key players ahead of Arne Slot’s anticipated arrival at Anfield.

With Feyenoord’s Slot reportedly set to succeed Jurgen Klopp at the end of the season, the transition poses a significant challenge for the 45-year-old, particularly as he ventures beyond his native Holland for the first time in his managerial career.

Taking over from Klopp, who enjoyed a highly successful nine-year tenure, adds to the pressure on Slot.

Liverpool’s readiness to support their new manager in the transfer market underscores their commitment to reshaping the squad to his preferences.

However, amid speculation of potential departures such as Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez, and Virgil van Dijk, Merson acknowledges the likelihood of certain transfers, notably Salah’s rumoured move to the Saudi Pro League.

Despite this, Merson advocates for the retention of two key players, regardless of other departures, to provide stability and continuity for Slot’s tenure.

“I think Mohamed Salah goes to Saudi this summer and Arne Slot will have a huge task on his hands to replace the Egyptian’s goals, if he ends up leaving,” the Arsenal legend told Sportskeeda.

“A lot of coaches and backroom staff from the Jurgen Klopp era will also be on their way out, so the Dutchman has his work cut out for him.

“They have to keep Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker, though, as these players form the spine of their backline.”

While Van Dijk remains renowned as one of the world’s top defenders and has played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s achievements under Klopp, Alisson, despite recent injury setbacks, has also been instrumental.

Liverpool are poised to conclude Klopp’s tenure on a high note, commencing with an upcoming match against Aston Villa on Monday night.

The clash promises to be a closely contested affair between two formidable sides currently occupying third and fourth place in the table.

Paul Merson added: “Aston Villa play tonight [Thursday] against Olympiakos and need to overturn a 4-2 deficit for a spot in the Europa Conference League final against Fiorentina.”

“Liverpool will just go out and try to open up the game as they aren’t playing for anything, so I think this will be a fun game to watch.

“It largely depends on the atmosphere and the result of Villa’s Conference League clash, but I’m going for a 2-2 draw.”

Read more: Didi Hamann assesses success of Liverpool’s midfield overhaul last summer

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