Dream first move: Slot could seal amazing early Liverpool signing who’s ‘like Virgil’ – Report…

This potential signing could be a game-changer for Liverpool, reminiscent of Virgil van Dijk.

Liverpool’s season has taken a turn for the worse, with Jurgen Klopp facing challenges in the Premier League, Europa League, and FA Cup.

Despite the current struggles, there is a glimmer of hope for Liverpool to finish strong, although it seems unlikely that Arsenal and Manchester City will falter in the remaining fixtures.

Klopp’s ability to lead Liverpool to title contention showcases his tactical prowess and leadership skills, especially after missing out on Champions League football last season.

Liverpool may consider signing one of Arne Slot’s current players to kickstart his tenure as the successor to Jurgen Klopp.

Slot’s high-pressing, electric-energy style of play aligns well with Liverpool supporters and while it may not deviate significantly from Klopp’s brand of football, some adjustments and fine-tuning are necessary.

Klopp successfully revamped the midfield last summer, but the inefficiency of the forwards and vulnerabilities in the defense highlight the need for new additions.

One potential candidate is Slovak defender David Hancko, who has been on Liverpool’s radar for the past year and has thrived under Slot’s system at Feyenoord.

Hancko, a skilled left-footed center-back, possesses exceptional ball-playing abilities and technical skills that would greatly benefit Liverpool’s squad.

His familiarity with Slot’s tactics further enhances his appeal to the team. The player’s agent confirmed Liverpool’s interest in the 26-year-old earlier this year, and with Slot’s potential arrival, Hancko could become the first signing of a new era at Anfield.

Feyenoord secured Hancko’s services from Sparta Prague in 2022 for a fee of approximately €6m (£5m). Despite struggling to make an impact at Fiorentina in Italy, Hancko thrived under Slot’s guidance, contributing significantly to Feyenoord’s success by scoring ten goals and providing eight assists in 90 appearances.

His contributions were crucial in securing the Dutch Eredivisie title last season and the KNVB Cup this season.

Based on FBref data, Hancko is positioned in the top 17% of central defenders in leagues similar to the Eredivisie for goals, the top 16% for assists, the top 15% for pass completion, the top 1% for shot-creating actions, progressive passes, and progressive carries, and the top 2% for successful take-ons per 90.

This indicates that Hancko is an exceptionally versatile and innovative defender in Europe, showcasing creativity and progressiveness both on and off the ball.

Additionally, the 6 foot 2 powerhouse wins 61% of his 4.0 contested duels per game in the Eredivisie, as per Sofascore, demonstrating his ability to encompass a wide range of skills in his gameplay.

With impressive displays in the Eredivisie this season, Hancko could be poised for a move to the Premier League, armed with the complete skill set necessary for success.

David Hancko’s style of play, characterized by his robustness in tackles, creativity in possession, and overall polished performance, would make him a valuable addition to Liverpool.

Data analyst Ben Mattinson has praised Hancko as a player of exceptional quality, further highlighting his potential impact at the club. With his preference for the left side, Hancko’s arrival would allow captain Virgil van Dijk to shift to his favored right side, enhancing the fluidity of Liverpool’s defensive line.

Hancko has expressed his admiration for van Dijk and sees potential similarities between them, making the prospect of a partnership between the two even more enticing.

I have a great admiration for Virgil van Dijk. Although I don’t want to compare myself to him, I must admit that last season I experienced a similar invincible feeling.

Like Virgil, I possess a fearlessness when facing opponents. However, it is important to note that this does not mean I lack respect for them.

Andy Robertson, undoubtedly a Liverpool legend, has faced criticism this year despite his consistent energy since joining from Hull City for a mere £10m in 2017.

Robertson remains one of the most innovative full-backs in Europe. With the addition of Hancko, who covers immense distances on the field and consistently drives the team forward, Robertson could potentially find solace in advancing further up the pitch.

Furthermore, Hancko’s presence may even challenge Ibrahima Konate for a starting position in the Liverpool first team. Konate has recently faced scrutiny for his involvement in Liverpool’s decline, with The Athletic’s James Pearce even labeling his performance as “dreadful” during their home defeat against Crystal Palace in the Premier League.

In the aftermath of the defeat against Everton, Konate’s performance was heavily criticized by the media. The Liverpool Echo’s Ian Doyle gave him a low match rating of 3/10, highlighting his struggles against Calvert-Lewin and costly errors throughout the game.

With Matip’s injury concerns and contract situation, Konate’s reliability as Van Dijk’s partner is in question. On the other hand, Hancko’s consistent performances in the Eredivisie without any errors leading to shots make him a promising option to bolster Liverpool’s defense.