Liverpool to keep Slot, target Raum as Robertson replacement
Liverpool's ownership, Fenway Sports Group, will retain the services of manager Arne Slot and is preparing for a significant squad overhaul this summer, with RB Leipzig's David Raum a primary target, according to multiple reports. The club's intention is to back manager Slot with new signings, despite a disappointing season, and a new left-back is a key priority.
According to The Athletic's David Ornstein, FSG's plan is to continue investing in the squad, with the club's hierarchy seeing the project under Slot as a long-term project requiring further development. Ornstein reported that the club's intention is to "stick with Arne Slot into next season and give him longer," citing the significant transition period following Jürgen Klopp's departure and a net spend of around £150m across recent windows as evidence of ongoing backing.
With Andy Robertson's contract expiring at the end of the season, the search for a left-back is a priority. Sources indicate that Liverpool have identified Germany international David Raum as the ideal candidate to replace the long-serving Scot. The 27-year-old RB Leipzig defender is seen as a player who can compete with current left-back option Milos Kerkez for the starting position. However, the club faces competition for his signature, with Manchester United also credited with an interest in the 27-year-old.
In addition to Raum, Liverpool are also tracking RB Leipzig's Ivorian winger, Yan Diomande. The 19-year-old, who can play across the front line, is viewed as a potential long-term successor to Mohamed Salah. When asked about interest from clubs like Liverpool, Diomande told Africa Foot, "I’m here, and first and foremost, I’m healthy and working hard every day. Hearing these rumours about big clubs... gives me even more motivation to work." He remained non-committal, adding that his focus is on his current club.
This planned squad refresh comes amid a difficult season for Slot, whose team sits fifth in the Premier League and is on the brink of Champions League elimination. Despite the on-pitch struggles, the club's hierarchy, according to Ornstein, see clear mitigations for the team's form, including the significant challenge of following a legendary manager and the need for several transfer windows to build Slot's ideal squad. The club reportedly sees a need for "three or four" first-team signings to become competitive again, with a wide forward also a high priority, especially with the expected departure of Mohamed Salah.
The pursuit of Raum, 27, signals a move towards a more modern, attack-minded full-back. His arrival would represent a significant change in the left-back position, which has been anchored by Robertson for the better part of a decade. The club's scouting of Raum in recent weeks, as reported by sources, indicates a serious and advanced interest in the German international, though Leipzig are said to be keen to retain him.
