In an intriguing development that could add weight to ongoing Liverpool transfer rumors, Orkun Kokcu has spoken highly of his former coach Arne Slot, describing him as “the best coach in the world.”
The 23-year-old midfielder, who currently plays for Benfica, appears to have fueled speculation that he may be looking to reunite with Slot, a move that could bring him to Anfield in the near future.
Kokcu’s words have caught the attention of Liverpool fans and transfer experts alike, as the Turkish international’s rise under Slot’s tutelage at Feyenoord was nothing short of spectacular. Having joined Feyenoord’s youth ranks, Kokcu’s career truly took off under Slot’s guidance, with the midfielder becoming one of the Eredivisie’s standout performers. Last season, Kokcu helped guide Feyenoord to the league title, contributing 12 goals and 5 assists in 46 appearances, cementing his place as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.
Kokcu’s success in the Netherlands led to a €25 million move to Benfica in July 2023, a substantial profit for Feyenoord considering Kokcu was initially acquired for just €40,000. Now, in Portugal, Kokcu has continued his fine form, registering 4 goals and 3 assists in 15 matches for Benfica this season. His consistent performances have led to growing rumors that Liverpool are eyeing a potential move for the dynamic midfielder.
The relationship between Kokcu and Slot is well documented, and the player’s recent comments will undoubtedly pique the interest of Liverpool’s recruitment team. In an interview with Portuguese outlet Record, Kokcu made it clear how much he values Slot’s influence on his career, saying: “He made me the player I am today. He is the best coach in the world.” These words will not only reassure Liverpool fans but could also strengthen the club’s resolve to pursue a deal with Benfica in the coming transfer windows.
Liverpool, who have been actively seeking to bolster their midfield options, are reportedly keen on adding Kokcu to their squad. Although the midfielder has a hefty release clause of €150 million in his current contract with Benfica, sources indicate that Liverpool may be able to secure his signature for a more manageable price of around €80 million. This price tag is still significant, but it could represent good value for a player who has already shown his ability to excel in top-flight European football.
The prospect of Kokcu playing under Slot again at Liverpool has generated plenty of buzz, especially given Slot’s tactical approach and ability to develop players. Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, is said to be keen on securing Kokcu’s services, and there are reports that Slot himself has made it known that he would like to see his former star move to Anfield. It’s clear that Kokcu is held in high regard by both his former manager and the Liverpool hierarchy.
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In addition to Kokcu, Liverpool are believed to be scouting other midfield options, with Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi also linked with a move to Anfield. Zubimendi, who opted to stay in Spain during the summer transfer window, could be another key addition to strengthen Liverpool’s midfield. With the club continuing to monitor options, the arrival of a new midfielder in January is looking increasingly likely.
Meanwhile, reports out of Germany suggest that Liverpool have opened discussions with Eintracht Frankfurt’s Omar Marmoush, a forward who has impressed with his 14 goals this season. The 24-year-old Egyptian forward is seen as a potential successor to Mohamed Salah, though the two players share a connection that could bring an interesting dynamic to the squad.
Liverpool are also reportedly eyeing Fulham’s Antonee Robinson as a long-term option at left-back. The club has been “huge fans” of Robinson, and they are even prepared to offer Kostas Tsimikas as part of a player-plus-cash deal for the American international. This potential move signals Liverpool’s intent to further strengthen their defensive options as well.
In summary, the latest comments from Orkun Kokcu have added another layer of intrigue to Liverpool’s transfer plans. The club is clearly active in the market, looking to secure quality additions that can help them reclaim their place at the top of the Premier League. Whether Kokcu will be one of those additions remains to be seen, but with his praise for Arne Slot and the growing links to Liverpool, a move to Anfield is becoming an increasingly plausible scenario.
With the January window approaching, Liverpool’s pursuit of Kokcu and other targets will likely intensify, and fans will be eagerly watching as the transfer saga unfolds. Whether Slot will have a significant role in these deals remains a key question, but his influence on players like Kokcu could play a crucial part in shaping Liverpool’s future.