Liverpool Football Club has reportedly initiated discussions with Feyenoord over the potential appointment of Arne Slot as their new manager. The Dutchman is currently the leading candidate to replace Jurgen Klopp, who will be stepping down at the end of the 2023-24 season.
The Reds are faced with a daunting task - finding a suitable successor for their inspirational German coach, Jurgen Klopp. Initially, Ruben Amorim, Sporting Lisbon's head coach was considered a favourite for this role. However, recent reports suggest that Amorim might be heading towards West Ham United instead.
Speculation around Arne Slot taking up the managerial role at Anfield has been rife in recent days. Sky Sports News reports that talks between Liverpool and Feyenoord have commenced. The 45-year-old Dutchman is keen on making a move to Merseyside and it's hoped that an agreement could be reached for compensation around £9m.
Arne Slot has proved his tactical brilliance at Feyenoord
Liverpool seems attracted by Slot's 'aggressive and full-throttle' style of football which aligns well with their own playing philosophy. Since taking charge of Feyenoord in July 2021, he has enjoyed considerable success.
He led Feyenoord to victory in last season's Eredivisie title. His team secured the Dutch Cup last weekend following a 1-0 win over NEC. They were runners-up in the 2021-22 Europa Conference League.
Feyenoord technical director, Dennis, said:
"I think it is logical that he is in such a good position. It is very special how he has manifested himself in recent years and has really given Feyenoord a face,"
"We responded by extending his contract (in May last year until 2026). In any case, we assume that he will also be our trainer next year. We have experienced this situation before and will take good care of our own interests."
Many clubs in line for the Dutch in Premier League
Despite losing only twice from 30 games this season, his team currently sits second on the Eredivisie table behind PSV Eindhoven.
Slot boasts an impressive record at Feyenoord - out of 146 matches played under him; they've won 94 times while drawing on another 29 occasions and losing just 23 times. His coaching career, which began in 2016, also includes stints at Cambuur and AZ.
Interestingly, Spurs had shown interest in Slot last summer. However, he chose to extend his contract with Feyenoord until the summer of 2026. At that time, he stated that his work at Feyenoord was 'not done'.
However, it seems Liverpool has managed to turn his head. Chelsea and Leeds United have also expressed interest in Slot during his tenure at Feyenoord. While an agreement between Liverpool and Arne Slot is yet to be confirmed officially, the Dutchman's successful track record makes him a promising candidate for the Reds' managerial role post-Klopp era.
