Each manager brings in new ideas, methods, rules, and a set of players to the club. The story will be no different for Arne Slot at Liverpool as he takes charge after Jurgen Klopp decided to exit the club after a long successful tenure.
As per Turkish outlet Fotospor, the Dutch manager is pushing the Reds to sign Benfica’s Orkun Kokcu in the summer. Slot believes the highly-rated player would be a good addition and help the team win trophies next season.
Orkun Kokcu’s rising reputation
After spending his initial years at Feyenoord, Orkun Kokcu signed for Benfica in the summer of 2023. In a short time, he earned the faith of the management and made a direct impact. He has been an instrumental player for them this term.
Kokcu plays as an attacking midfielder and links up well with the offensive line. He has good dribbling skills and the ability to provide crucial passes. His finishing is also top-notch apart from being a threat while taking set pieces.
The Turkish attacker has featured in 43 games, netting seven goals and providing 11 assists this season. He is averaging 1.5 shots, 1.6 key passes, and 0.6 dribbles per game (stats via whoscored).
Will Liverpool spend big?
Arne Slot‘s interest in Orkun Kokcu is understandable as the duo has worked together before. The former understands the talent the player possesses and hence, he wants to add him to his ranks. Kokcu’s arrival will surely boost Liverpool’s midfield unit.
Being 23-year-old the youngster still has plenty of areas to improve. With proper guidance and more games under his belt, he can turn into a lethal midfielder. However, Benfica are reportedly not going to accept any offer below £40m, which could be an issue for the English side.
Apart from the Reds, Manchester United are also keeping tabs on the player and could give stiff competition for his signature.