Liverpool could have incredible starting XI as Arne Slot eyes first blockbuster transfer

Liverpool boss Arne Slot could be spoilt for choice when it comes to picking his preferred team if the Reds manage to seal a few exciting transfers. The six-time European champions are yet to make any signings despite being linked with a host of high-profile names, but that may be about to change.

They are said to be targeting the addition of a deep-lying midfielder, with Real Sociedad ace Martin Zubimendi thought to be a priority target. The 25-year-old is keenly admired by Liverpool but any potential move could be complicated by his £51.7million release clause.

Zubimendi is unlikely to be the only player targeted by Liverpool, with plenty of time left for the Reds to kickstart their summer recruitment drive. Slot will certainly benefit from all the help he can get when it comes to improving his squad as he prepares for his first season in the Anfield dugout.

Express Sport takes a look at the incredible starting XI that Liverpool could have if things go well for them in the summer market…

Goalkeeper – Alisson

There are no surprises between the sticks with Alisson Becker set to be Liverpool’s first-choice goalkeeper for at least one more season. It is clear that he will need to be replaced at some point in the not-too-distant future, but the 31-year-old is almost certain to keep his starting spot for now.

Caoimhin Kelleher will continue to deputise for Alisson unless he is sold, in which case the Reds will need to scour the market for a new back-up goalkeeper.

Defence – Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, Simakan, Robertson

Liverpool could partner Virgil van Dijk with Mohamed Simakan in central defence after being linked with a potential move for his signature. They have already reached out to RB Leipzig to express their interest, according to Sky Germany, with a bid of around £38m likely to suffice.

A move for Simakan would provide Liverpool with another long-term defensive solution, supplementing the likes of Jarell Quansah and Ibrahima Konate. The rest of their back four would be largely unchanged with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson the starting full-back options.

Midfield – Zubimendi, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai

Zubimendi would fit nicely into the defensive midfield position, assuming the role that was occupied by Wataru Endo for much of last season. He primarily operates as a deep-lying playmaker when in possession, while he is also more than capable of screening in front of the back four without the ball.

A move for Zubimendi would give the likes of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai more freedom to venture forward and contribute to attacking moves, potentially making Liverpool a force to be reckoned with next season.

Attack – Salah, Gordon, Gakpo

Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon continues to be linked with Liverpool despite a move falling flat earlier in the window. If a deal can be resurrected over the coming weeks, it would give the Reds a new dimension in the final third with Mohamed Salah on the opposite flank.

Both players would be able to offer plenty of scoring opportunities to Cody Gakpo if he starts the campaign as Liverpool’s main striker. The Merseyside giants would also have no shortage of quality on the bench, with Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota able to come on and wreak havoc against tired legs.