Liverpool’s 7 summer transfer priorities ranked in order of importanceRyan Gravenberch has been brilliant but needs back-up  3. A new left-back

Liverpool are expected to make serious moves in the summer transfer window, and with Arne Slot now firmly settled in the manager’s seat, the club’s transfer priorities are becoming clearer by the day. A new era is on the horizon at Anfield, and the goal is simple: return to domestic and European dominance.

The Reds’ disappointing finish this season, coupled with underwhelming performances in key areas, has prompted a strategic rethink. With several players underperforming or battling injuries, Slot is already identifying critical positions in need of reinforcement. Liverpool’s next evolution will be built not just on flair and attack, but on structural strength.

While many fans and pundits believe a central defender could be part of the shopping list, sources within the club suggest otherwise. Virgil van Dijk’s decision to stay has changed the outlook. The Dutchman’s leadership and renewed fitness mean that Liverpool will not be urgently seeking a new center-back — at least not as a priority.

Instead, the focus will be on the front and flanks. Slot wants more dynamism in the wide defensive roles, better creativity in midfield, and a true clinical finisher leading the line. Liverpool’s defensive stability has been shaky on the flanks, with both fullback positions needing urgent review.

At left-back, Andy Robertson remains a loyal servant, but age and form have caught up with the Scottish international. Kostas Tsimikas, though energetic, has failed to convince as a reliable replacement. Consequently, this position has emerged as a weak spot, and one player being strongly considered is Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez. The Hungarian has shown immense promise and fits the energetic style Slot wants.

The right-back situation is even more uncertain. Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to leave Anfield in the summer amid speculation linking him with a move abroad. His departure would leave a gaping creative hole, not just defensively but also in Liverpool’s attacking build-up. Slot must find a balance between defense and invention, and two approaches are being considered.

The first is to sign an experienced, attack-minded fullback like Jeremie Frimpong, who can slot right into the first team. The second is to invest in a younger or lesser-known player who can grow into the role, offering competition to Conor Bradley, who impressed in flashes this season.

Yet the most critical addition Liverpool are set to pursue is a new striker. Darwin Nunez has been frustratingly inconsistent. Despite his physical presence and moments of brilliance, he has lacked the composure and finishing ability required at the elite level. With just 11 Premier League goals between him and Diogo Jota under Arne Slot, changes are inevitable.

Jota remains a fan favorite, but his persistent injuries have raised doubts about whether he can lead the line across a demanding campaign. As such, Liverpool will aggressively pursue a reliable goal-scorer. While the club admires Alexander Isak, prising him away from Newcastle may prove too costly. Other names such as Victor Osimhen and even rising English striker Liam Delap have surfaced as options.

Salah’s brilliance has masked many attacking flaws, but the club is acutely aware that they cannot continue to rely solely on the Egyptian king. With Mohamed Salah turning 33 soon, planning for life after him is no longer a suggestion — it’s a necessity. He needs attacking partners capable of scoring 15-20 goals a season.

Midfield depth is another issue. Ryan Gravenberch has impressed since joining, but fatigue and injuries have affected his consistency. Slot will need to bolster this area to ensure flexibility and control in matches. Whether the club signs a new number eight or a versatile midfielder capable of filling multiple roles remains to be seen.

Another silent dilemma for Liverpool is the goalkeeping department. While Alisson remains one of the best in the world, backup options haven’t inspired confidence. With Caoimhin Kelleher likely to seek more game time elsewhere, Liverpool could be forced to dip into the market for a new second-choice keeper.

Van Dijk recently hinted at big plans for the summer, stating, “This club needs to keep evolving. There’s no room for standing still. We can improve, and I believe the club knows that.” His words only added fuel to the speculation that Liverpool are preparing for a major squad overhaul.

Liverpool’s recruitment strategy under Michael Edwards has always been smart rather than flashy. The return of Edwards to a leading football operations role could now be pivotal. His previous track record — including signing Salah, Alisson, and Fabinho — shows an ability to identify undervalued talent who can immediately improve the team.

The summer of 2025 will test the resolve, ambition, and vision of Liverpool Football Club. With Manchester City, Arsenal, and even Aston Villa strengthening, the Reds cannot afford to fall behind. It will be up to Arne Slot and the recruitment team to reshape the squad in a way that balances short-term impact with long-term sustainability.

Liverpool fans will be watching closely — not just to see who arrives, but who leaves. With murmurs of exits for Nunez, Thiago, Matip, and even Joe Gomez, this could be the most significant rebuild at Anfield since Jurgen Klopp’s early years.

The mission is simple: return to the summit. But the path to get there requires precision, patience, and power moves in the transfer market. All eyes are now on Liverpool — On The Goal.