Liverpool manager Arne Slot has yet to make any additions to his squad since taking over from Jurgen Klopp, but that is likely to change as the Reds ramp up their pursuit of midfield reinforcements.

Since arriving from Feyenoord after the 2023-24 season, Slot has been waiting for his full squad to return from international duty. Several Liverpool players were involved in the latter stages of both the European Championships and Copa America.

With Thiago and Joel Matip having departed Anfield, Liverpool is looking to bolster their midfield, even though both players were sidelined for much of last season due to injuries.

Slot has emphasized that the team will only dip into the transfer market if they find a player who can make a significant impact in the right position. According to The Athletic, Liverpool are now focused on acquiring a specialist defensive midfielder before the transfer window closes at the end of August. While the specific player has not been disclosed, it is understood that he plays outside the Premier League.

Liverpool have experimented with various midfield setups since the arrivals of Alexis Mac Allister, Wataru Endo, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Ryan Gravenberch last summer. Despite interest in Endo, Liverpool has turned down offers and continues to explore options.

“The expectations for new signings are high due to the quality of our current players, so finding someone who meets those standards and is available can be challenging,” Slot said earlier in the transfer window. “We also need to reach an agreement, so it’s not always easy to find the right player. Richard (transfer chief Richard Hughes) is working diligently on this, and we’ll see what develops.”

Stefan Bajcetic is expected to play a role this season as he recovers from a long-term injury. Gravenberch impressed Slot in a deeper role during pre-season, but the need for additional talent remains.

“Ryan performed very well in that position [against Manchester United], and we have other options as well,” Slot noted. Liverpool secured a 3-0 victory against United in a US pre-season match, with goals from Fabio Carvalho, Curtis Jones, and Kostas Tsimikas. “We’ll have a clearer picture once all the players are back, but Liverpool is always on the lookout for players who can strengthen the squad. This search isn’t confined to one specific position. We are continually assessing the squad.”

Liverpool’s Premier League season begins against newly-promoted Ipswich Town on August 17, with a lunchtime kick-off. The transfer window for Premier League clubs closes on August 30, giving Liverpool just under two weeks to complete any new signings.