Liverpool are once again being linked with South Korean international Kim Min-jae, according to an exclusive report by CaughtOffside. The Bayern Munich defender is expected to be available this summer, with the Bundesliga giants now believed to be open to his departure. Once valued at €50 million, Kim’s price tag has reportedly dropped to a more accessible €35 million, opening the door for several Premier League clubs to express their interest.

The Reds were previously interested in Kim during his standout season at Napoli, but Bayern acted swiftly and secured his services last summer. Fast forward 12 months, and his time in Germany has not lived up to the high expectations, sparking talk of a new challenge. Sources have told CaughtOffside that Kim is “keen to move on,” and that “a move to the Premier League would be the 28-year-old’s preference.”

Photo: IMAGO Competition for Signature

Liverpool are not alone in monitoring Kim’s situation. Newcastle United are believed to have “held some initial talks,” while Chelsea are also keeping tabs on the 6ft 3in centre-back. Interest from the continent remains, too, with both Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan tracking developments closely.

Despite a relatively underwhelming campaign with Bayern, Kim remains a highly respected defender. His form at Napoli during the 2022–23 season was particularly impressive, helping them to a historic Serie A title with a commanding presence and sharp anticipation. Yet at Bayern, the transition hasn’t fully clicked. As the original article notes, “it remains to be seen if he’s really shown enough during his time in Germany to suggest that he could be a success in the Premier League.”

Liverpool’s Defensive Picture

Arne Slot, fresh from guiding Liverpool to a Premier League title in his debut season, will be keen to build on that momentum. However, the defensive department is one area ripe for reinforcement.

Virgil van Dijk, although still a leader on and off the pitch, is 33 and can no longer be expected to play 90 minutes every week. The situation surrounding Ibrahima Konaté, who is entering the final year of his contract, adds further complexity. There are also lingering questions over Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah, both of whom have been reliable but not without inconsistency.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot may view Kim as an experienced and cost-effective solution, particularly at a time when Liverpool are looking to be both strategic and ambitious in the market.

Potential and Risk

Kim’s physicality and tactical intelligence could suit English football, and he has experience at the highest levels of club competition. But there’s no hiding from the fact that he hasn’t fully settled in Munich. For Liverpool, this would be a calculated gamble: one based on past potential rather than recent form.

Still, €35 million for a defender with Kim’s pedigree may be too good to pass up, especially when factoring in the Premier League’s increasing physical demands and fixture congestion.

“Bayern’s asking price for Kim is also understood to have dropped from around €50m to more like €35m,” CaughtOffside revealed, a detail that could significantly influence Liverpool’s decision-making process.

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Liverpool fans will be intrigued by this potential signing, especially given Kim Min-jae’s past links to the club. At €35 million, he fits the mould of a savvy FSG-style buy — a player whose value may have dipped but still offers high upside. Many will remember the club’s previous interest when he was at Napoli, and the hope would be that under Slot’s system, Kim could rediscover his best form.

However, supporters may also question whether this is the kind of marquee defensive reinforcement needed to match the club’s title-winning ambitions. Is Kim the natural successor to Van Dijk, or just a short-term fix? His struggles at Bayern might raise eyebrows, but fans should also consider the context — tactical instability, inconsistent selection, and an underwhelming Bayern campaign all played a role.

What’s promising is that Liverpool are being proactive. With Champions League football returning to Anfield and the need for depth and experience at the back more important than ever, fans will be watching closely to see whether this interest evolves into something more concrete.

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Liverpool’s pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen’s rising star Florian Wirtz has taken a significant leap forward, with fresh negotiations indicating the deal is now entering its final stages. According to Florian Plettenberg of Sky Germany, recent discussions between the clubs have seen notable progress, with the package now approaching a remarkable €150 million, inclusive of bonus payments.

BREAKING | Understand FC Liverpool and Bayer 04 Leverkusen have significantly moved closer in a deal for Florian #Wirtz after fresh talks and a revised offer!

The total package is now heading towards €150 million, including potential bonus payments. There’s still no full… pic.twitter.com/Mgq3vAx8ME

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) June 6, 2025

Breakthrough in Negotiations

Plettenberg reported via a recent tweet: “Understand FC Liverpool and Bayer 04 Leverkusen have significantly moved closer in a deal for Florian #Wirtz after fresh talks and a revised offer!” The figure, if agreed, would be Liverpool’s most substantial financial commitments to date, underscoring the club’s determination to compete at the very top of European football.

Financial Details

The proposed transfer fee includes structured bonuses, emphasising performance and achievement-based incentives. This strategic financial planning allows Liverpool to manage their substantial investment responsibly, reflecting modern football’s growing emphasis on long-term value and return on investment.

Plettenberg added clarity regarding the financial specifics, stating: “The total package is now heading towards €150 million, including potential bonus payments.” Such a substantial figure would position Wirtz among the elite signings in Premier League history.

Anticipated Impact at Anfield

At just 22, Florian Wirtz has already established himself as one of Europe’s most exciting talents, renowned for his vision, creativity, and remarkable composure in the final third. Securing his signature would be a statement of intent from Liverpool, significantly enhancing manager Arne Slot’s tactical options and providing the team with an attacking spark capable of influencing crucial fixtures.

Wirtz’s arrival would likely energise an already dynamic frontline, complementing stars like Mo Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai, and providing invaluable depth for Liverpool’s European and domestic campaigns.

Final Steps in the Deal

Though a full agreement remains elusive, Plettenberg emphasised the closeness of completion, asserting confidently: “It’s now just a matter of time.” This confidence signals the advanced stage of negotiations and suggests Liverpool fans may soon welcome their new marquee signing.

As the final details are ironed out, Liverpool supporters will eagerly anticipate official confirmation, hopeful that Wirtz will soon grace Anfield, bolstering the squad’s pursuit of silverware.

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Liverpool fans have plenty of reason to be excited about Florian Wirtz potentially joining the club. Given his talent and versatility, his arrival could significantly shift the balance of power in Liverpool’s favour in both the Premier League and Champions League. For many supporters, this signing would be a long-awaited statement, reinforcing Liverpool’s position as genuine contenders capable of challenging the dominance of clubs such as Manchester City and Real Madrid.

While the price tag is substantial, investing in Wirtz reflects ambition and foresight. Under Arne Slot’s guidance, Liverpool has shown tactical flexibility and creativity, and Wirtz would thrive in such an environment. Fans would be eager to see how Slot integrates him into the system, enhancing the attacking fluidity that is crucial for competing on multiple fronts.

Yet, there will also be cautious optimism. Such significant investments carry risks, particularly regarding expectations. Liverpool fans understand the pressure on young players adapting to English football, but Wirtz appears ready for the challenge. If this deal comes through, it would undoubtedly boost confidence, anticipation, and expectation among the Anfield faithful.

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As Liverpool edge closer to securing a deal for Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, one man who finds himself in the spotlight is Andy Robertson. The veteran left-back, speaking exclusively to BBC Sport, delivered a candid and composed reflection on the situation, brushing off any anxiety with experience and trademark Scottish grit. At 31 and with just a year left on his Liverpool deal, Robertson’s words were revealing, not only of his mindset but of the culture Arne Slot is preserving at Anfield.

Robertson Welcomes Competition

The notion that Robertson might be feeling unsettled by a potential new arrival was quickly put to bed. “We’re not daft, it looks as if a deal could potentially be done,” he said, but it’s what followed that showed a deeper layer of determination. “Until that is done, I’ve not even given that a second thought. I back myself, I’ve got confidence in my own ability and that drives me forward.”

Photo: IMAGO

For a player who’s been part of Liverpool’s spine through the most transformative period of the 21st century, Robertson’s focus remains internal. It’s less about holding on to the shirt and more about proving he still deserves it. “I still believe I have a hell of a lot to give for however many years I can keep going. My body feels good at the minute,” he added.

In elite football, confidence isn’t arrogance — it’s necessity. His tone, calm yet firm, echoes the approach that’s made him a fan favourite since arriving from Hull City. Kerkez may be younger and faster, but Robertson’s experience is not easily replaced.

Kerkez as a Strategic Signing

From a squad-building perspective, Milos Kerkez ticks multiple boxes. Just 22 and already proving himself in the Premier League with Bournemouth, his high energy and attacking thrust are reminiscent of Robertson at his peak. Last season, the Hungary international racked up 2 goals and 6 assists in 38 Premier League appearances — numbers that hint at a player ready to take a step up.

With Liverpool’s title win under Slot showcasing a new tactical flexibility, the club’s recruitment clearly leans towards dynamic full-backs who can offer width, recovery pace and positional adaptability. Kerkez fits that brief.

Photo: IMAGO

Danny Murphy’s view that Kerkez would be an “ideal transfer” for Liverpool is hard to argue with. He wouldn’t arrive to immediately displace Robertson, but rather to compete, rotate and push standards higher.

Squad Depth and the Bigger Picture

What Liverpool appear to be building is more than a title-defending squad — they’re constructing a long-term dynasty. The signing of Jeremie Frimpong to cover or compete with Alexander-Arnold and the near-completion of a deal for Florian Wirtz are emblematic of a club not just planning for next season, but the next five.

Robertson’s reaction, in this context, matters. He’s not resisting change but embracing the demands that come with elite sport. “I’ve had eight fantastic years at Liverpool in terms of winning trophies, being a mainstay in the team,” he said, before reminding everyone, “I’ve not missed a training session and that’s not a sign of someone who is slowing down.”

Such remarks suggest that whatever role Robertson plays in 2025–26 — starter, mentor, competitor — it will be shaped by his own resolve, not sentiment.

No Signs of Slowing Down

If Robertson were clinging to past glory, his words might sound defensive. But they don’t. Instead, they reflect someone attuned to reality yet unwilling to be defined by it. “I can’t tell you how I’ll feel at 33 or 34, but I can tell you, at 31, I feel excellent.”

With pre-season on the horizon and Arne Slot likely to demand even more physically from his full-backs, Robertson’s durability will be tested. But based on his own testimony, he’s ready for it.

As the Reds continue reshaping under Slot’s title-winning watch, the past and future are finding a way to coexist. And in players like Robertson, Liverpool have leaders who don’t just adapt to change — they drive it.

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You can’t help but love Robbo. No moaning, no drama, just straight-up honesty and a burning desire to keep proving himself. This is why Liverpool fans sing his name every week. The lad’s a proper Red.

If Milos Kerkez does come in — and let’s be real, it looks like he will — then brilliant. That’s how you stay champions. You don’t rest, you evolve. Kerkez has pace, aggression, and attacking numbers that could push us up another gear, especially in those tight games where width and overlaps matter most.

But Robertson? He’s not just going to roll over. You can bet your season ticket he’ll come back in pre-season like a man possessed. Slot knows what he’s doing and if he can balance youth and experience, this could be the best full-back pairing we’ve had in years.

We’ve said it before — iron sharpens iron. And with Robbo still fighting and Kerkez hungry to prove himself, it’s win-win for the fans. Another smart move in what’s shaping up to be a blinding summer.

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Liverpool fans had plenty to celebrate this season. Arne Slot’s debut campaign in charge ended with the club lifting the Premier League title, returning to the summit of English football with a style and swagger reminiscent of the best Anfield sides. However, amidst the celebrations came a bitter sting — the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid.

Despite the £10 million compensation fee paid to Liverpool following the expiration of Alexander-Arnold’s contract, the nature of his exit struck a nerve. A homegrown talent, a boyhood Red, and a player who had been at the club for two decades — many fans expected a different ending.

When Alexander-Arnold appeared as a substitute at Anfield for the first time since announcing his move, sections of the crowd made their disappointment known. The boos were unmistakable. Michael Owen, a man who made a similar journey from Merseyside to Madrid — and whose legacy with Liverpool fans remains complicated — weighed in on the reaction.

Owen’s Plea for Understanding

Speaking on talkSPORT, Owen said he was “so disappointed” by the fans’ reaction. He added, “Of course, people are going to feel let down, a bit sore or disappointed, but this will never change.

“When it’s your job, you see it very differently. There’s no point me trying to stick up for him in any way as a fan wears that badge, they are proud of their badge and that’s never going to change.

“But in what other job do you get criticised for trying to better yourself, for just trying to be as good as you can in the shortest career of them all.”

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Owen knows the terrain well. From Liverpool to Real Madrid, then on to Manchester United, his own journey was met with criticism. But his defence of Trent reflects a belief that players deserve to pursue their potential without being vilified.

Big Move, Bigger Risk

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s decision to join Real Madrid is bold. At 26, he’s never known another club and is stepping into a spotlight few can handle. Yet, with a reported £1 billion release clause in his six-year deal, the Spanish giants are clearly banking on his success.

Statistically, his contribution to Liverpool was immense:

• Appearances: 373

• Goals: 27

• Assists: 96

That final number is telling. His attacking output has always been central to Liverpool’s style, and under Xabi Alonso at Madrid — who is expected to implement a wing-back system — his influence could grow further. Fewer defensive duties and more licence to attack suit his profile perfectly.

With Kylian Mbappe among the forwards likely to benefit, the chance to link up with elite talent could make Alexander-Arnold’s playmaking even more lethal.

Pressure to Perform in Madrid

Of course, Real Madrid is not a club for sentiment. Patience is thin, expectations sky-high. But if Alexander-Arnold can channel the same creativity and precision he showed at Anfield, he could thrive.

What’s clear is that this isn’t just a story about a footballer moving abroad. It’s about identity, loyalty, legacy and ambition. Michael Owen’s words may not soften every critic, but they do pose a question Liverpool fans will have to wrestle with — can you blame a player for dreaming bigger when he’s already conquered his boyhood club?

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Liverpool’s updated Premier League retained list offers a glimpse into the subtle but significant transitions taking place beneath the first-team spotlight. While fans are still basking in the glow of a title-winning season under Arne Slot, the club continues to quietly reshape its future behind the scenes.

Seven players will depart Liverpool this summer following the expiration of their contracts. All of them were part of the club’s Academy set-up, representing different stages of development and expectation.

Dominic Corness, Louis Enahoro-Marcus, Harry Evers, Lee Jonas, Jakub Ojrzynski, Jacob Poytress and Reece Trueman have all reached the end of their journeys at Anfield.

“Everyone at Liverpool would like to thank them for their contributions and wish them the best for the future,” read the official club statement.

Liverpool FC has submitted its Premier League retained list following the conclusion of the 2024-25 season.

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) June 6, 2025

Retained Talent Reflects Future Focus

While exits often grab the headlines, the names listed in Liverpool’s retained list suggest the club is maintaining a deliberate and forward-thinking strategy when it comes to youth development.

Contract offers have been extended to Kareem Ahmed, Emmanuel Airoboma, Keyrol Figueroa, Kyle Kelly, Michael Laffey, Wellity Lucky, Terence Miles and Ranel Young. This signals that the club still believes in their potential to make meaningful contributions, whether through the U21s, loans or as part of long-term squad development.

The inclusion of Keyrol Figueroa, in particular, is telling. The striker, son of former Premier League defender Maynor Figueroa, has been closely watched due to his performances for the youth sides and his appearances on the international stage for the United States youth teams.

Strategic Refresh Under Slot’s Reign

Liverpool’s Premier League retained list does not include any major first-team names this year, reflecting a settled and title-winning senior squad. However, it is an indicator of Slot’s approach to managing the development pipeline. Retaining specific profiles shows an intent to keep a strong grip on the club’s future output, perhaps influenced by the growing importance of homegrown talent and sustainability in top-flight football.

The decision to release seven players at once may also be reflective of structural changes within the Academy itself, especially as Liverpool continues to align its methods with Slot’s tactical requirements. The Dutchman is known for his attention to detail and strategic planning, and this retained list may be the first of many data-informed decisions shaping the next era at Anfield.

Balancing Sentiment with Progress

As ever, letting go of Academy talent is a balancing act between emotional investment and professional progress. Many fans follow the youth ranks as closely as the senior side, and the release of names like Corness and Jonas, once touted as potential future stars, underlines the brutal reality of elite football.

However, retaining a core group ensures that Liverpool’s Academy continues to be a conveyor belt of technically gifted, tactically prepared players capable of stepping up when needed — or attracting suitors elsewhere, strengthening the club financially and reputationally.

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Liverpool will begin their pre-season preparations with a trip to Deepdale to face Preston North End on Sunday, July 13, in a 3pm kick-off. This match, their first outing of the summer, will come just five days after the squad reconvenes at the AXA Training Centre on July 8 under manager Arne Slot.

Slot, fresh off winning the Premier League title in his debut season at Anfield, will be keen to establish momentum early, and the Preston fixture offers a chance to fine-tune match fitness and assess the squad dynamics. Interestingly, this match will serve as a repeat of his very first encounter in charge of Liverpool, when a mixed squad lost 1-0 to Preston in a behind-closed-doors friendly last summer.

That particular outing featured 25 players across two halves, with heavy involvement from academy prospects and fringe senior figures. This time, however, Slot is expected to field a much stronger group, especially given the lack of major international tournaments impacting player availability.

Frimpong Debut Possible as New-Look Squad Forms

Jeremie Frimpong, already announced as Liverpool’s first signing of the summer, could feature for the first time at Deepdale. The club is also reportedly chasing Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz and Bournemouth full-back Milos Kerkez, both of whom may yet join before the match.

The Preston fixture will mark the beginning of a busy pre-season itinerary. After a week at Kirkby, the Reds will travel to Asia, taking on AC Milan in Hong Kong on July 26 and Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan four days later. Their schedule will then conclude with a return to Wembley for the Community Shield against Crystal Palace on August 10.

Tickets and Potential Home Friendly on Horizon

Tickets for the Preston North End friendly will go on sale to season-ticket holders and members from 10am on Monday, June 16, with general sale opening the following day. Meanwhile, plans are being explored for another friendly in early August, possibly at Anfield, to serve as a final tune-up before the competitive season gets underway.

There is also the potential for an additional local game between the Preston trip and the departure to Asia, though details remain unconfirmed.

Historical Ties and Shankly’s Deepdale Legacy

Liverpool’s shared history with Preston North End stretches back over a century, with 95 meetings to date, including 25 friendlies. Their most recent competitive clash came in the Carabao Cup fourth round in 2021, where goals from Takumi Minamino and Divock Origi secured a 2-0 win for the Reds.

Although the two clubs have rarely met in recent decades — just five times in the past 55 years — there is a strong historical connection. Bill Shankly, one of Liverpool’s most legendary managers, spent 16 years as a player at Preston and is commemorated at Deepdale with the Bill Shankly Kop stand.

As Liverpool prepare to open their summer schedule at a ground steeped in their own mythology, Slot’s focus will be on integrating his side swiftly and building the rhythm that defined their triumphant league campaign last season.

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