Liverpool owners begin early review of Slot's future amid Tillman links
Liverpool's ownership group, Fenway Sports Group, has initiated an early review of manager Arne Slot's position following a disappointing season, according to sources close to the club. The process, led by football chief Michael Edwards and sporting director Richard Hughes, was planned for the end of the campaign but has been brought forward in the wake of a 4-0 FA Cup semi-final defeat to Manchester City last weekend.
Sources indicate that scrutiny on Slot has intensified, with failure to secure Champions League qualification potentially making his position untenable. The Dutch manager, who took over last summer, has seen his team fail to defend their Premier League title and exit all cup competitions. Following the loss at Wembley, some supporters were heard chanting the name of Xabi Alonso, the former Liverpool midfielder now managing Bayer Leverkusen, who is reported to be the leading candidate to replace Slot should a change be made.
Amid the uncertainty over the managerial situation, the club's recruitment department is reportedly pressing ahead with summer plans. Liverpool have identified Bayer Leverkusen and United States international Malick Tillman as a key target, according to a report from Sportsboom. The 23-year-old midfielder, who can operate in an advanced or box-to-box role, has scored eight goals in 35 appearances this season for the Bundesliga champions.
Tillman recently signed a new contract with Leverkusen extending until 2030, but the report claims Liverpool are prepared to test the German club's resolve with an offer in the region of £60 million. This figure is said to be double the previously mooted valuation of £30 million. Leverkusen are also facing a battle to keep other stars, including Arsenal target Christian Kofane.
Separately, Mohamed Salah's anticipated departure from Anfield at the season's end has been linked by some to Slot's management. The Egyptian's former international teammate and close friend, Mohamed Aboutrika, stated in comments reported by TEAMtalk that Slot's presence is "one of the reasons" behind Salah's decision to seek a new challenge, suggesting the manager had "pushed the man away." Salah's contract was due to expire in 2027.
The confluence of events places significant pressure on the final weeks of Liverpool's season. The club currently sits fifth in the Premier League, with their focus now solely on securing a top-four finish. The early review suggests the ownership is weighing its options carefully, with the coming weeks likely to determine both the dugout and the transfer strategy for a pivotal summer.
