Liverpool will ‘100 per cent’ pursue a striker in ‘busy’ summer window – but Arne Slot will not be granted ‘transfer war chest’ despite healthy budget

Liverpool are set to enter the summer transfer window with purpose, and their priority is clear: a new striker is at the top of their wishlist. But new manager Arne Slot will have to operate within the financial constraints of the club’s sustainable model, meaning there won’t be a free-spending spree despite the club’s healthy financial state.

After a season of transition and mixed results, the Dutchman is already working with Liverpool’s recruitment team to identify key areas for reinforcement. While there’s money available, sources indicate the club will not engage in any reckless spending or go toe-to-toe financially with the likes of Manchester City or Chelsea in their peak investment years.

A report by the Daily Mail confirms Liverpool “100 per cent” want to sign a striker and are already scouting potential targets. While the term “war chest” may be an exaggeration, there’s a firm commitment from the board to back Slot in building a more potent and balanced squad.

One of the biggest reasons for a striker being a priority is the inconsistent form of Darwin Nunez. Despite flashes of brilliance, the Uruguayan forward has failed to cement his place as a reliable goal scorer in the Premier League. Coupled with Diogo Jota’s frequent injury spells and the fact that Luis Diaz performs better as a wide player, Liverpool are in desperate need of a focal point in attack.

Mohamed Salah, who netted an impressive 33 goals this past season, has once again carried the bulk of Liverpool’s attacking threat. However, with the Egyptian approaching the twilight of his prime, the club is under pressure to reduce the burden on him. Reinforcements are not only necessary but crucial to Liverpool’s title ambitions under Slot.

In addition to a striker, the club is also prioritising a left-sided defender, especially with growing uncertainty around the future of some of their current full-backs. Beyond that, there are also murmurs of interest in signing another centre-back, a midfielder, and a wide attacker, depending on how many players leave the squad.

Several departures are expected to fund parts of this transfer activity. According to sources close to the club, Liverpool are open to offloading players who no longer fit Slot’s tactical approach. This could include fringe players or even high-profile names who have struggled for consistency over the past few seasons.

Darwin Nunez’s future remains a major talking point. After three underwhelming years at Anfield, his time at the club may be coming to an end. While no decision has been finalised, many within the club believe it’s time to part ways and reinvest in a more clinical forward.

One name that has emerged in recent scouting reports is Hugo Ekitike of Eintracht Frankfurt. The 22-year-old French striker has shown promise and could be available for a reasonable fee. However, Liverpool are also exploring multiple options. While Victor Osimhen has been linked with the Reds, insiders suggest there has been no concrete movement on that front yet.

It’s worth noting that while the club will spend, they will do so smartly. The emphasis remains on securing “value for money” deals rather than being drawn into bidding wars. This strategy has worked well in the past and is expected to continue under Slot.

The club’s business model is built on sustainability and long-term planning, and that isn’t expected to change. While fans might crave blockbuster signings, Liverpool’s recruitment will remain rooted in analytics, scouting, and fitting the manager’s vision.

One of Slot’s key observations since taking over has been Liverpool’s inability to dominate games in the same way Manchester City do. He has spoken publicly about how City often win games by larger margins, whereas Liverpool rely more on narrow victories – something he hopes to correct with the right additions.

Liverpool have already moved to secure the futures of key stars. Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk have both signed contract extensions, ensuring stability at both ends of the pitch. Now the focus turns to Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contract is also nearing its final stages.

Alexander-Arnold’s future could influence how Liverpool move in the transfer market, especially if there are plans to shift him into a midfield role, which has long been speculated. That shift could create a domino effect in terms of defensive signings.

Overall, this summer promises to be one of change and potential rejuvenation for Liverpool. With Arne Slot bringing a fresh philosophy and approach, and the board willing to back him—albeit within limits—the club is poised for a significant reshaping of its squad.

The key for Liverpool will be balancing ambition with pragmatism. They want to strengthen, but won’t lose sight of what has made them successful in the past: smart recruitment, strong internal leadership, and a commitment to player development.

With other Premier League rivals expected to spend heavily, the pressure is on Liverpool to get their moves right. Slot will be judged quickly, and the summer window could set the tone for his era at Anfield.

While fans may be disappointed by the lack of a “blank cheque” approach, they can take solace in the fact that the club remains competitive and financially stable, something many top European clubs cannot boast.

One thing is certain: Liverpool’s pursuit of a new striker will define their summer, and perhaps their season.