Arne Slot has refused to rule out the possibility of signing Dutch players upon his arrival at Liverpool. The soon-to-be Reds boss has been warned to learn from Erik ten Hag’s transfer flops at Manchester United when conducting business this summer.
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Slot is expected to mark his arrival in the Anfield dugout with a significant shakeup in several departments. Liverpool are in the market for signings at both ends of the pitch, with a new forward and a left-sided centre-back being eyed.
Several stars have already been linked with a move to the Reds as a result, including Netherlands Under-21 international Crysencio Summerville and David Hancko. However, Slot was warned to look elsewhere when weighing up his targets.
Ex-Everton director of football Marcel Brands recently told his fellow Dutchman to dip into different markets when considering his targets, and Slot has since responded to the advice. He said: “That's good advice from people who have worked in the Premier League and have made their mark in football.
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"But I don't think you should always judge based on moments from the past. I also read everywhere about the success rate of Dutch coaches in England. There are so many variables.
“If a player is good, it shouldn't matter what level he comes from. But at the moment, there's no talk of anything because nothing has been officially confirmed yet."
Brands used United as an example when trying to warn Slot about the risks attached to targeting Dutch stars and players based in the Eredivisie, with Antony being a notable underwhelming signing at Old Trafford. The ex-Toffees chief said: “Don't focus blindly on attracting five Dutch players. He has to look very carefully at what he needs with his style of football. Only settle for top players.
“Slot will be working at one of the biggest clubs in England. You have to realize that. Liverpool has supporters from all over the world, and the pressure is always there. Just like Manchester United, they really are the biggest clubs in England, but it is a fantastic challenge."
It remains to be seen the impact that Slot has on Liverpool’s transfer front or whether Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards will guide the club in the summer window rather than the new man in the dugout.
