On Tuesday morning, the Premier League unveiled the full schedule for the 2024/25 season, including Liverpool’s opening fixture: an away match against newly-promoted Ipswich Town at 12:30pm. Jurgen Klopp may have retired from his role at Merseyside, but the news would surely raise eyebrows among his successors. For Arne Slot, the new head coach at Anfield, this match marks the beginning of an exciting journey in the top flight of English football, with victory being the sole objective.
Slot will have a wealth of talented players at his disposal, yet it’s evident Liverpool need to consolidate during the summer transfer window, particularly in strengthening central defense and wide positions. However, this doesn’t discount the possibility that Michael Edwards and his team might explore opportunities in other areas, such as the current interest in Juventus prodigy Kenan Yildiz.
According to reports from Spain, Liverpool are leading contenders to secure the services of Yildiz, valued at approximately €30m (£25m) by Juventus. The 19-year-old Turkish sensation has drawn interest from other top clubs like Arsenal and Manchester United following a breakout season in Serie A. Although Yildiz may not fit the typical profile of a right-sided forward Liverpool has pursued, his unique skills present an intriguing market opportunity that Slot could leverage effectively.
Yildiz’s potential was highlighted by former Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri earlier this year, praising his exceptional ball control and decision-making abilities. Despite his young age, Yildiz has already made significant contributions at Juventus, showcasing his talents both offensively and defensively.
With impressive statistics placing him among Europe’s top forwards for various metrics, Yildiz brings electric pace and technical prowess that could add depth and dynamism to Liverpool’s squad. While comparisons to Cristiano Ronaldo may be premature, they underscore the high regard in which Yildiz is held within the footballing world.
Looking ahead, Yildiz’s speed and skillset suggest he could evolve into a permanent fixture on the wing, potentially succeeding Luis Diaz at Anfield if the Colombian departs. This prospect adds competition for places, particularly for players like Cody Gakpo, who will aim to secure a more prominent role in Slot’s plans.
As Liverpool continues to shape its squad for the upcoming season, the potential addition of Yildiz represents a strategic move to bolster their attacking options and maintain competitiveness at the highest level of English and European football
