Liverpool’s head coach, Arne Slot, mentioned that “it would be a surprise for all of us” if the club does not secure any summer signings.
As of now, the Reds have not added to their first-team squad during the current transfer window, which is set to close at 23:00 BST on Friday, 30 August.
Slot expressed his satisfaction by stating, “We have a very good team already, and I’m really pleased with it,” prior to his team’s match against Real Betis in Pittsburgh on Saturday (00:30 BST), the first of three fixtures during their pre-season tour in the United States.
He added, “However, it would certainly surprise us all if we don’t bring anyone in. Thus, it likely will occur in the end.”
“For the time being, we’re just awaiting the return of the players and hoping to sign the right ones.”
After succeeding Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool’s manager, Slot has been evaluating his squad but is currently missing several key players due to Euro 2024 and Copa America commitments.
Portuguese striker Diogo Jota has joined his Liverpool teammates in Pittsburgh, and French defender Ibrahima Konate along with Dutch midfielder Ryan Gravenberch are also anticipated to join the Reds in America.
Scotland left-back Andy Robertson is present in the U.S. but will not participate in any matches until after the tour as he recovers from a “minor injury” sustained during the Euros.
However, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson, Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, Joe Gomez, Alexis Mac Allister, Darwin Nunez, and Virgil van Dijk are still absent, and Slot anticipates they will “begin training post-trip when we return to Liverpool”.
“I believe I previously conveyed that our primary goal is to work with these players,” the Dutchman stated.
“Naturally, it’s a disadvantage that many of those under contract are not present yet.”
“The expectations are extremely high when it comes to bringing in new talent because we have such an excellent team and squad.”
Alongside Slot’s arrival, there has been notable change behind the scenes at Liverpool, with Fenway Sports Group appointing former sporting director Michael Edwards as the new chief executive of football.
Former Bournemouth technical director Richard Hughes has also stepped in as the sporting director for the Anfield club.
“Certainly, Richard and I, along with others, are working to enhance the squad where feasible, but it’s not straightforward given that we have so many talented players,” Slot remarked.
“Richard, perhaps even more than me, is diligently working on this, and he keeps me informed regularly. Should there be any updates on that front, we will share them with you.”
England defender Alexander-Arnold, along with forward Mohamed Salah and captain Van Dijk, have just a year remaining on their contracts with the Reds.
When asked about the 25-year-old Alexander-Arnold’s contract situation, Slot replied, “My response might sound a bit tedious. I believe it mirrors the same answer you’ve heard over the past five, six, or seven years.”
“Contract matters are not discussed here – but feel free to keep asking, I would say.”
