Liverpool will face a challenging summer. Despite the great season they are having with Arne Slot, the English team could lose several of their stars. Key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil van Dijk are out of contract and, barring an unexpected turn, everything points to them not renewing.
Alexander-Arnold is strongly rumored to sign for Real Madrid, while Salah has long been linked with a possible move to Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Van Dijk, Liverpool's defensive leader in recent years, would also be considering a new challenge away from Anfield. Given this scenario, Liverpool will have to turn to the market in search of replacements, which could pose a problem for Barça, who share targets with the English.
Liverpool Will Share Targets
Liverpool will go all out in the market to cover the losses of these three pillars of the team. In this regard, one of the names strongly rumored to reinforce the right-back position is Andrei Ratiu. The Romanian footballer has been closely followed by Barça in recent months, as he is an affordable option to strengthen the flank.
However, Liverpool also have Ratiu on their agenda as a possible replacement for Alexander-Arnold, complicating the operation for Barça. The English club's financial capacity is far superior, which could make it difficult for the blaugranas to secure the signing if the "reds" decide to go all out for him. If Alexander-Arnold finally ends up at Real Madrid, as it seems, Liverpool could make an irresistible offer for Ratiu, leaving Barça without one of their priority options.
Arne Slot Wants Flick's Favorite to Replace Van Dijk
Besides the flank, another key aspect for Liverpool will be replacing Van Dijk, and in this regard, the English have set their sights on a player who interests Barça. According to "E-Notícies," the Anfield club would have already started talks with Jonathan Tah, who is free this summer.
The German is one of the most solid defenders in the Bundesliga, and his signing at zero cost makes him an attractive option for any European team. In this sense, Liverpool want to get ahead of Barça and convince Tah to be the new leader of their defense. His ability to play the ball out and his strength in aerial play make him an ideal replacement for Van Dijk.
Barça Have It Agreed
Despite Liverpool's interest, Barça have very advanced negotiations with Jonathan Tah and are confident of securing his free transfer. Deco has been working on this operation for months, and the player is keen on playing in Barcelona. However, the competition from Liverpool could complicate the signing in the final stretch, so Barça will have to move quickly if they want to secure one of the best center-backs.