'When the time is right' - Liverpool linked with £67m ex-Arne Slot favourite
The former Feyenoord midfielder could reunite with Arne Slot at Anfield.
The Turkish international is highly regarded in Portugal for his performances at Benfica and he was previously one of Slot’s best players during his time at Feyenoord. Kökçü, 23, has started the season in fine form with four goals and three assists from seven games from central midfield.
According to Portuguese newspaper Record, Liverpool have scouted him this season in the UEFA Champions League and watched him during Benfica’s 4-0 Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid at the start of the month. However, they are said to be demanding at least £67m.
Slot was praised for his development of Kökçü by Kenneth Perez in the summer as the former Ajax and PSV winger told ESPN: “You'd be crazy to not love him because he has put these players on the map.” And speaking about Kökçü, Perez added: “He was a little bit of a lazy No. 10, thinking he already worked it out in football and Slot has made him a very fit player, a professional player, and earned a lot of money for the club and him.”
With Dominik Szoboszlai currently performing in that role, there’s also Harvey Elliott to consider - with both of those options being under the age of 23. It makes it difficult to imagine that Liverpool could accommodate Kökçü given their other options. Still, he remains a quality player who can thread passes through the lines, is always looking to shoot and always wants the ball.
As mentioned, midfield additions look unlikely unless there is an exit for Wataru Endo as it will likely result in the club finding another defensive midfielder. Outside of that, there’s Curtis Jones, Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch who can play in Kökçü’s role. With his deal set to expire in 2028, he may be one to keep an eye on for the time being as an opportunity may present itself further down the line for Slot and Liverpool.