February 25, 2025 – Liverpool, England

Liverpool currently boast a well-balanced squad across all three lines, but the prospect of an even stronger team looms large with potential additions in the summer of 2025. As the Reds march toward a possible Premier League title in Arne Slot’s debut season, speculation is rife about how the Dutch manager might reinforce his roster to maintain their dominance.

With Liverpool on the cusp of Premier League glory this season, they hold an imposing 11-point lead over second-placed Arsenal, having suffered just one defeat since the campaign began. Under Slot’s guidance, the team has exceeded expectations, positioning them as firm favorites to lift the trophy. Yet, former Liverpool star Jamie Carragher believes there’s room for improvement, pinpointing three key areas where the club should bolster its ranks in the upcoming transfer window.

Speaking on Sky Sports after Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City, Carragher said, “I think Liverpool need to bring in a left-back, a center-forward, and an attacking midfielder. I mean players who can genuinely step into the starting lineup. You can imagine Liverpool will have a budget to spend because they’ve barely spent anything in the last few years.”

Arne Slot, Liverpool’s current head coach, has also hinted at plans to strengthen the squad. In a recent interview with the BBC ahead of the clash against Newcastle on February 27, Slot remarked, “In the background, we are working on strengthening the squad for the summer. That would mean that for the upcoming years, we will be able to challenge for every trophy we are playing for.” His comments suggest a proactive approach to the transfer market, aligning with Carragher’s vision of a mini overhaul.

Drawing from Carragher’s analysis and Slot’s ambitions, The Mirror has sketched out a potential Liverpool lineup for the 2025-26 season, factoring in both existing stars and prospective signings.

In goal, Alisson Becker remains an almost certain starter, despite the arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili as a long-term successor. The Brazilian shot-stopper’s consistency and world-class ability make him indispensable. At the heart of the defense, captain Virgil van Dijk—whose contract expires at the end of this season—would continue partnering Ibrahima Konate, assuming he signs a new deal. Van Dijk’s leadership and defensive prowess remain vital to Slot’s system.

The future of Trent Alexander-Arnold hangs in the balance, with Real Madrid circling for a free transfer in 2025. However, should he commit to a new contract, the 26-year-old would retain his role at right-back, supported by the promising Conor Bradley as a deputy.

On the left flank, Andy Robertson’s dip in form this season has fueled calls for a replacement. Carragher’s suggestion aligns with rumors linking Liverpool to Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez. The 21-year-old Hungarian has shone since joining the Cherries, earning a reputation as an attacking full-back with the potential to be Robertson’s long-term successor.

In midfield, the duo of Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister has been a revelation, with Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai providing solid alternatives. However, Carragher has expressed reservations about Szoboszlai’s deployment as an attacking midfielder, previously urging Liverpool to pursue West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta for the role. Paqueta’s flair and creativity could elevate the Reds’ midfield to new heights.

Up top, Liverpool’s attack could see a significant shake-up. Darwin Nunez’s struggles—managing just four Premier League goals this season and often relegated to the bench under Slot—have sparked speculation about his exit. The Mirror predicts the Reds might join the race for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, a clinical striker who could thrive in Slot’s chance-creating system.

Cody Gakpo, meanwhile, has flourished under Slot’s management, cementing his place on the left wing, while Mohamed Salah continues to dazzle as one of the world’s elite forwards. With his contract also nearing its end, Liverpool will pull out all the stops to secure an extension for the Egyptian superstar.

If Slot follows Carragher’s advice and his own hints at summer reinforcements, Liverpool could field this dream lineup in 2025-26: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Paqueta; Salah, Sesko, Gakpo. That’s three new signings—Kerkez, Paqueta, and Sesko—blending seamlessly with the existing core.

As Liverpool chase Premier League glory this season, the prospect of a refreshed squad next year has fans dreaming of sustained success. With Slot at the helm and a strategic summer window on the horizon, the Reds could solidify their status as a footballing powerhouse for years to come.