Liverpool Football Club has reached an agreement with Feyenoord for the transfer of manager Arne Slot to Anfield. The 45-year-old will join as the successor to Jurgen Klopp this summer. While Liverpool’s initial offer of compensation for Slot was turned down, both clubs remained determined to reach an agreement.
According to sources in both England and the Netherlands, a verbal agreement has been reached, and the final deal is currently being put down on paper. The rejected offer from Liverpool was around €9 million (£7.7m), but the deal is now reported to be worth closer to €15 million (£12.8m), making Slot the most expensive manager in Dutch history. This reflects Liverpool’s commitment to securing the right candidate following Klopp’s resignation.
Personal terms with Slot are expected to be finalized without any issues, as they are likely to have been provisionally agreed beforehand. Slot still has three remaining games in charge of Feyenoord, starting with a match against his former club PEC Zwolle on Sunday night. However, he will soon begin his work at Liverpool.
Slot will serve as the on-field figurehead of a new regime at Anfield, and it is anticipated that several staff members from Feyenoord will join him. Liverpool’s boardroom has already undergone restructuring, with Michael Edwards now serving as CEO of football, Richard Hughes as sporting director, and David Woodfine as his assistant.
It is worth noting that Slot will operate as a head coach within Liverpool’s existing structure, rather than being the frontman of the club. This approach aligns with Fenway Sports Group’s vision for the team and ensures a seamless transition from Klopp’s tenure to Slot’s leadership.
Overall, Liverpool’s pursuit of Arne Slot and their willingness to pay a significant fee showcases their commitment to finding the right manager for the club. With Slot set to bring his own staff and work within the established structure, Liverpool is poised for a smooth transition as they enter a new era under his guidance.