Liverpool’s summer transfer window will be crucial if they are to build on the success endured by Arne Slot in his first season in charge of the side at Anfield

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The Dutch manager seems poised to secure the Premier League crown in his debut season, but reinforcements will be necessary to match that achievement in the 2025/26 campaign.

A number of players are likely to leave the Reds during the summer, meaning the squad will need both increased depth and upgrades in certain positions for those staying at Anfield.

Darwin Núñez and Harvey Elliott have already been linked with potential summer exits, and any transfers involving them could boost the manager’s budget to strengthen his team.

It looks like he hasn’t wasted any time identifying potential signings, with one individual standing out as a top target as the summer window approaches.

**Liverpool make contact to land £50m PL star**

As per *The Athletic*, Liverpool have reached out to Bournemouth about a summer move for centre-back Dean Huijsen, though they’ll have to contend with strong competition.

Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, and Newcastle United are also vying for the 19-year-old, who’s made a major impact for the Cherries during the 2024/25 season.

So far, he’s featured in 25 Premier League matches, scoring twice and assisting once, playing a central role in the club’s pursuit of European football under Andoni Iraola.

The report notes that Liverpool’s leadership has already met with the player’s representatives regarding a transfer to Merseyside, with a £50m buyout clause currently in place.

Though the fee might seem steep for such a young player, it could prove to be a shrewd move, giving Slot a future star to anchor the defence for years to come.

**Why Huijsen would be a better signing than Kerkez for Liverpool**

In recent weeks, Huijsen hasn’t been the only Bournemouth talent linked with a switch to Liverpool—Milos Kerkez has also been associated with a transfer.

The Hungarian left-back has attracted interest over a possible £40m move to Slot’s squad, though it’s still unclear whether a deal will be finalized this summer.

His abilities have been evident, with two goals and five assists in the Premier League this term, playing a key role in Bournemouth’s success under Iraola.

Still, bringing in Huijsen would clearly be a more valuable acquisition than signing Kerkez, particularly with several top clubs also pursuing the centre-back this window.

The Spanish defender would be an ideal match alongside current partner Virgil van Dijk, and a transfer would offer him the chance to learn from the Dutch veteran while evolving into the team’s next top defensive asset.

Huijsen has already proven himself on the South Coast, even surpassing Van Dijk in several crucial metrics, further proving he’s a superior addition compared to the left-back.

Huijsen, described as “world-class” by one pundit, boasts more progressive carries per 90 minutes—demonstrating his composure and skill in possession, fitting well into Slot’s style of play.

Defensively, he’s excelled too—winning more tackles and interceptions per 90 minutes—outshining Van Dijk despite being so young, making his potential signing even more impressive.

Although £50m is a substantial investment for someone so young, his brief time in the Premier League has made a strong case for his ability and future growth.

With so many clubs interested, Liverpool’s decision-makers will need to act swiftly, or they risk losing out on a highly promising player—something they could deeply regret.

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