Arne Slot aims to bring his favored player to Anfield, with the board set to secure the gifted player as a gesture of welcome for the Dutch coach…

Arne Slot, the newly appointed Dutch coach at Liverpool, has expressed his desire to bring his “favorite player” to Anfield. The board is also keen on signing this talented player as a debut gift for Slot.

As the speculation continues, it remains to be seen which Feyenoord star could potentially make the move to the Premier League this summer.

One player who has attracted attention is the Dutch full-back, Hartman. He was spotted in the stands during Arsenal’s impressive 5-0 victory over Chelsea, sparking rumors of a potential transfer. Chelsea, in particular, are in need of a left-back to replace Ian Maatsen, and it was even reported that Hartman had already entered into discussions with the club regarding a summer move.

However, these negotiations came to an unexpected halt in early April. Hartman sustained a serious knee injury during Feyenoord’s 4-2 win over Utrecht on March 31, ruling him out of action for a significant period of time. It is anticipated that he will not be able to return to the field until 2025.

Slot, who has the challenging task of replacing Klopp, may consider looking to Feyenoord for summer signings. Recent reports suggest that this is already being considered. We have identified five players from Feyenoord, along with their market values, who could potentially sign for Liverpool or other Premier League teams in the upcoming season.

One player who has been specifically mentioned as Slot’s potential “first” signing is Lutsharel Geertruida. It is reported that Geertruida is already being “demanded” as a player bound for Liverpool. Furthermore, Geertruida himself is said to be “keen” on a move to Anfield.

While this transfer may not create major headlines for Liverpool’s new regime under FSG’s CEO of Football, Michael Edwards, it could still be a valuable addition.

Geertruida is a versatile player who can contribute in various positions. Although he has primarily played as a right-back this season, he has the ability to play across the entire back four. This versatility would be beneficial for Liverpool, especially as Trent Alexander-Arnold potentially transitions into midfield or considers a move to Real Madrid.

Geertruida, who has an impressive record of seven goals and four assists this season, would provide healthy competition at the right-back position alongside talented youngster Conor Bradley.

Hartman to address the left-back dilemma

Liverpool’s left-back predicament has become evident this season. While Kostas Tsimikas serves as a decent backup option and Joe Gomez provides defensive versatility, neither has been able to replicate the impact that Andy Robertson had in previous campaigns.

The main concern lies with Robertson himself, as he has struggled to regain his previous form. Despite his recent goal against West Ham, the Scottish player hasn’t been consistently impressive since returning from injury.

At 30 years old, it appears that age might be catching up with Robertson. SciSports, a data analytics firm, has observed a notable decline in his overall ability since 2022. This further supports the notion that he is no longer the same player he was a few years ago.

Robertson’s performance is declining, while Hartman’s is on the rise. At the age of 22, the Dutch player is considered better than Robertson was at the same age, and Hartman still has the potential to surpass the current ability level of the 30-year-old. Both players are attacking left-backs, but Hartman is more adept at linking up with teammates in central areas.

Importantly, Liverpool’s new manager Arne Slot is well-acquainted with Hartman’s style of play, having coached the 22-year-old into becoming a senior Dutch international. Unfortunately, Hartman’s recent injury means that Slot will need to come up with an alternative solution for Liverpool’s left-back position in the meantime.