Liverpool latest: Virgil van Dijk backs team-mate as Cody Gakpo swap deal proposed
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Arne Slot has been urged to complete a swap deal for a player earmarked as the replacement for Mohamed SalahLiverpool have the chance to salvage some pride from their inconsistent campaign across their final four fixtures of the season. We examine a swap deal the Dutchman has been encouraged to pursue, as well as Virgil van Dijk addressing transfer speculation surrounding his team-mates.READ MORE: Luis Diaz has given Liverpool no option over summer transfer moveSlot urged to pursue swap dealAmongst the problems that have hampered Liverpool's progress this season, the shortage of goals from their attacking line could well sit at the top of the list.While the club may invest again in their forward options this summer, former Reds midfielder Jermaine Pennant has called on Arne Slot to bring in Michael Olise as a replacement for Mohamed Salah, who will depart the club at the end of the season.The Bayern Munich star has enjoyed an outstanding second campaign in Germany, registering 20 goals and 29 assists across 47 appearances.
Despite his contract at Bayern not running out until 2029, Pennant maintained that securing the France international must be achieved "at all costs" for Liverpool.After witnessing the 24-year-old score a superb goal in Bayern's 5-4 Champions League semi-final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday, Pennant posted on X: "Liverpool go out and get Olise right now, at all costs. All the latest news and analysis from Anfield on the Liverpool Echo's dedicated LFC Facebook pageCody Gakpo has faced criticism from Liverpool supporters for his underwhelming displays, having managed just eight goals and six assists in 48 outings across all competitions.Van Dijk speaks on speculationWith Salah and Andy Robertson departing Liverpool, the future of Curtis Jones continues to generate discussion.
The midfielder is entering the final year of his contract with no indication yet of a potential fresh agreement.The 25-year-old was reportedly linked with a surprise switch to Inter Milan during the January transfer window but remained at Anfield and has since caught the eye at right-back in recent fixtures.Having made only 14 league starts this term, there has been speculation that the England international has become frustrated with his role. It's nice to be in your original position but he is so comfortable on the ball, he understands what is asked from that position."Buy Blood Red, our monthly Liverpool FC print publication for just £3.50 by clicking here