Liverpool trained as champions for the first time on Wednesday, but in another universe, the Reds could have been playing in the Champions League semi-finals instead. That will be the aim next year.
Mohamed Salah has already posted a message insisting his teammates would look to go again next season after wrapping up the title. And as well as retaining the Premier League title, going further in Europe will be high on the agenda. With a couple of signings to add to an already very talented roster, why not?
Here is the Liverpool.com verdict on the transfer gossip to emerge around the Reds today. We start with a claim emerging regarding a massive transfer war chest.
$233M Arne Slot spending spree?
Liverpool is preparing for a big summer and could spend a massive amount in order to ensure that it continues competing at the top end of the biggest trophies next season. That is according to the Daily Mail, with talent valued at a collective $233 million (£175 million) touted as possible options.
It reports that Bournemouth defensive duo Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez (more on the latter in a minute) are both admired. Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike is another who could supposedly be one to watch out for.
If Trent Alexander-Arnold leaves for Real Madrid then Liverpool will probably need to sign a right-back too. And if a big enough offer came in for another player in a different part of the pitch, that could also be added to the to-do list.
Liverpool.com says: Huijsen and Kerkez would be great buys; there is a bit more of a question mark over Ekitike because of his youth and inexperience. His price tag would be very big for a player who has had less than one full season at the level required.
Milos Kerkez (Bournemouth) and Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa)
Liverpool admires both Kerkez and Alexander Isak but might not be willing to pay the asking price for either of the pair, according to The Telegraph. Isak, in particular, is going to be a very costly player, with Newcastle United desperate to keep him.
With Kerkez, the Reds are said to be “reluctant to overpay for a left-back”, with sporting director Richard Hughes aiming to bring someone in who can share the load with Andy Robertson. The Hungarian would cost around $60 million (£45 million) to prise from Bournemouth.
Meanwhile, Liverpool and Chelsea are both monitoring the Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers, according to GiveMeSport. The England international is another who would have a huge price tag, however. He has impressed this season, scoring 14 goals.
Liverpool.com says: It has long been obvious that with Isak, the price would almost certainly be too big. Kerkez would not be cheap, but he is only 21. He could be the answer for the next decade, which would certainly spread the cost.
