Liverpool transfer news RECAP - Virgil van Dijk contract, Milos Kerkez latest, Jarell Quansah hint

Gerrard makes feelings clear on Paddy Pimblett victory as new UFC position confirmed

Steven Gerrard has become the latest celebrity to praise Paddy Pimblett after his emphatic victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 314 on Saturday night. Pimblett, 30, extended his winning streak in the UFC to seven as he defeated the American with a TKO finish in the third round of the co-main event at Miami's Kaseya Center.

Victory over Chandler moved the Huyton-born fighter up four places in the lightweight rankings to eighth and put him within touching distance of a title shout. In the wake of his stunning victory over Chandler, Pimblett was congratulated by the likes of Virgil van Dijk, Sami Hyypia, Wayne Rooney, and Jerzy Dudek.

And on Tuesday night, Reds legend Gerrard, who also hails from Huyton, became the latest high-profile figure to praise the lightweight's performance as he left a heart and a raising hand emoji under one of Pimblett's posts.

Premier League title race state of play and why Liverpool can't expect any favours

Arne Slot did not have any expectations placed upon him to deliver a Premier League in his first season as Liverpool's head coach yet that is what he stands so close to achieving. The odds fall incredibly in the Reds' favour with only six matches to go.

Last weekend's results saw Liverpool come out on top against West Ham - but only just - whilst rivals Arsenal faltered again in a draw with Brentford. It meant the gap between first and second expanded to 13 points, leaving only six more for Slot's leaders to take before being mathematically confirmed as champions.

With that, Opta say it is a 99.87 percent likelihood the Premier League trophy ends up at Anfield - a fact that could be sealed on either the coming weekend or the next.

Read more about the title race state of play

Arne Slot set for awkward reunion after Premier League confirm Liverpool decision

Stuart Atwell will referee Liverpool for the fourth time this season when they play Leicester City this weekend. The Reds have won both Premier League matches he has officiated.

One was Arne Slot's first home game against Brentford, with the other their midweek match with Newcastle United in late February. However, between those fixtures, Atwell oversaw the League Cup semi-final first leg against Tottenham Hotspur.

That match earlier this year was marred by the decision not to show Lucas Bergvall a second yellow card. The teenage midfielder scored the game's only goal, inflicting Liverpool's second defeat under Slot.

Read more about what Slot said on Atwell

Liverpool forward set to be sixth player to suffer season-ending injury - 'Not looking likely'

Michael Carrick has admitted Ben Doak might have played his last game for Middlesbrough, though is not fully giving up on the Liverpool loanee making a return before the end of the season.

The Scotland international injured his thigh in training back in January which later required surgery last month, and has missed Boro’s last 13 Championship matches as a result. The 19-year-old had been a star performer for the Teessiders during the first half of the season prior to injury.

He recorded three goals and seven assists from 21 Championship starts to propel Middlesbrough into play-off contention, while he also made headlines for his appearances for Scotland in the Nations League against Portugal, Croatia and Poland.

Read more on what Carrick said about Doak

Liverpool tormented by son of former Anfield favourite as cult hero watches on

Liverpool Under-18s fell to a heavy 5-0 at home to Man City on Wednesday as the son of a former Reds hero tormented Marc Bridge-Wilkinson’s side. Reigan Heskey - son of Emile - scored twice as the U18 Premier League North leaders ran out emphatic winners in Kirkby.

The young Reds actually only trailed 1-0 at half-time as Matty Warhurst, having only come on as a substitute midway through the first half, netted with a smart back-heel from a Heskey set-piece.

In truth, the goal had been coming with Cameron Williams needing to clear off his own line following an early City corner, while the visitors were later denied by the crossbar following another set-piece.

Read more from our Liverpool writer Theo Squires about the match earlier today

Ex-Man City chief disagrees with Carragher over 'crazy' Salah contract

It is 'crazy' how long Liverpool took to finalise Mohamed Salah's contract renewal, blasted former Manchester City financial advisor Stefan Borson. He expressed this viewpoint in response to Jamie Carragher's recent assessment of the situation.

All season long, uncertainty over Salah's future as a Liverpool player had threatened to distract from the Reds' ongoing Premier League title push. Much to the relief of Arne Slot and Anfield chiefs, such talk has now been put to bed with the 32-year-old agreeing terms for a two-year extension.

This prompted club legend Jamie Carragher, writing in his Telegraph column, to comment how Liverpool have 'played a blinder' through their negotiations with the Egyptian.

Read more about what Borson said about Salah's contract

Carragher names Isak transfer alternative in 'break the bank' message

Jamie Carragher is unsure whether Liverpool would break the bank to sign Newcastle United star Alexander Isak but has named Hugo Ekitike as an alternative. The former defender believes that the Reds are 'probably kicking themselves' for missing the chance to sign the Sweden international from Real Sociedad.

Arne Slot faces a busy summer with a host of incomings and outgoings billed with Liverpool on the cusp of celebrating a second Premier League crown in five years.

In recent months, the futures of Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz have become unclear following reports of interest from Saudi Arabia as well as the Colombian becoming the subject of supposed interest from Barcelona.

Isak has proved to be a thorn in the side of the Liverpool defence after finding the back of the net in previous meetings with the Reds - including the Carabao Cup final. The Swede has been linked with a move to Anfield. However, Carragher has raised suspicions over whether the move would go against the transfer model on Merseyside.

Read more about what Carragher has said about Isak

Enrique has just declared truth about Liverpool and Premier League claims

As Liverpool stroll towards the Premier League title, the more their looming achievement is downplayed by rivals. The Reds sit 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League table and need just six more points from their final six games to be crowned champions.

Having lost just twice in the English top-flight all season, they have been the cream of the crop and will be well-deserved champions.

But given the fact that second-placed Arsenal trail by 13 points, reigning champions Man City are 21 points behind in fifth place and Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are 14th and 15th respectively - 38 and 39 points fewer Arne Slot’s side - critics have called the quality of this season’s Premier League into question.

Read what Enrique had to say

Liverpool 'need to strengthen defensively' and 'bring in three or four top players'

Liverpool has been told they will take a big step forward if they are able to bring in "three or four top players across the pitch". The former Arsenal player Emmanuel Petit has told William Hill Vegas they are missing a world-class striker and need to strengthen defensively.

Liverpool have a strong squad with a lot of quality players, but if they want to reach the very top again - especially in Europe - they need to reinforce in key areas.

They've signed quite a few strikers in recent years, but I still feel they’re missing that one world-class striker who can guarantee 30 goals a season. That kind of clinical forward makes all the difference when you reach the final stages of major competitions.

They also need to strengthen defensively, especially in terms of squad rotation, and perhaps add some depth in midfield too.

If they can bring in three or four top players across the pitch, I believe Liverpool will take a big step forward. We saw it against Paris Saint-Germain - there’s quality, but maybe not that killer edge up front.

Liverpool receive major Alexander-Arnold boost and Nunez update

Trent Alexander-Arnold has handed Liverpool a major fitness boost after training with his team-mates on Wednesday. And Darwin Nunez is also expected to come back into contention after being well enough to play a part in the session.

Alexander-Arnold has been absent for over a month after hurting his ankle in the second half of the penalty-shootout defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, missing the last four games in total that included the Carabao Cup final defeat to Newcastle and the Merseyside derby win over Everton.

The right-back had targeted a comeback before the month was out, and he has now taken a significant step forward after participating in Wednesday's session at the AXA Training Centre.

Read more about the players who returned to training today

Inside Liverpool's quiet recruitment evolution as Barcelona legend guides Richard Hughes

While the appointment of Arne Slot to succeed Jurgen Klopp last summer was the headline news for a Liverpool in transition, behind the scenes has shown further evidence of a club undergoing evolution rather than a revolution.

The return of Michael Edwards, back into the Fenway Sports Group fold as its 'CEO of football' last year was understandably lauded by supporters, who were able to toast to a golden period between 2018 and 2022 under Klopp and the players signed when Edwards held the job title of sporting director.

Julian Ward's comeback also saw him become FSG's technical director, while Pedro Marques was recruited from Benfica to take up a position as director of football development.

Read more from Reds correspondent Paul Gorst about the club's recruitment department

Gerrard 'ready to return' and is on 'final shortlist' at Premier League club

Steven Gerrard is reportedly on Southampton's final shortlist of managerial candidates.

EFL Analysis reports that the Saints have him and Coventry City head coach Frank Lampard on their radar alongside Sheffield Wednesday manager Danny Roehl. Gerrard is reputedly ready to return to the United Kingdom after leaving Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq earlier this year.

He spent 18 months coaching there, his first role since being sacked by Aston Villa in October 2022. Rangers, where Gerrard previously spent three years as the manager, are also said to have him on their list of options to replace Philippe Clement permanently this summer.

Klopp tipped for new job and Arsenal could help pave the way for Liverpool hero

Jurgen Klopp is reportedly being considered for the Real Madrid managerial role if Carlo Ancelotti gets the boot. Ancelotti has had a challenging year at the Bernabeu, with Los Blancos currently second in La Liga and teetering on the brink of a Champions League quarter-final exit.

They face Arsenal in the second leg of their quarter-final clash on Wednesday evening. However, they have a mountain to climb after suffering a 3-0 defeat in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium last week.

If Madrid do bow out of Europe as anticipated and fail to close Barcelona's current four-point lead at the top of La Liga, it's widely believed that Ancelotti will be shown the door. Xabi Alonso has been the favourite to take over for some time now.

Read more about the reports linking Klopp with the Madrid job

Salah told what must come next after signing new Liverpool contract - 'I actually thought'

Mohamed Salah has been told he needs further silverware at Liverpool to cement himself "among the very best in Premier League history". But former Arsenal star Emmanuel Petit has also detailed to William Hill Vegas how impressed he has been with the Egyptian's leadership at Anfield.

Mohamed Salah is without doubt one of the best players in Premier League history. Whether he’s the best is hard to say - we’ve seen so many incredible players over the years, but I have so much respect for what Salah brings, not just on the pitch, but off it as well.

Salah is humble, he’s a leader, and he carries himself with real dignity. His interaction with team-mates, referees, and fans - it’s all first class. I would have loved to play alongside someone like him.

Of course, players like Kevin De Bruyne are also in that conversation for the modern era, and sometimes, when you're caught up in the present, people forget the legends of the past, ut Salah will definitely be remembered as one of the greats. If he wants to be among the very best in Premier League history - right up there with the icons - he may need to win another major trophy with Liverpool.

I actually thought this season might be the one for Liverpool to win the Champions League. Now that Salah’s staying, who knows what could still happen?

Read more from Petit about Salah

Virgil van Dijk to extend his Liverpool stay?

It feels like it is a matter of time before Virgil van Dijk puts pen to paper on a new contract at Liverpool.

The Dutchman was one of three high-profile players set to be out of contract at the end of the season but after Mohamed Salah extended his stay at the club by a further two years last week, the Reds' season-long contract saga is now approaching a conclusion.

When speaking in the mixed zone after Sunday's game, Van Dijk, 33, hinted that the announcement of a new contract could come this week.

"Let's see how this week goes," said the skipper. "I think first, all the focus should be going to the Hillsborough anniversary. I mentioned it already in interviews, I think that's the main thing and then we'll see.

"The focus will still be on Leicester [who Liverpool are playing next week], but maybe there's some news. I don't know. I know, but I don't know."

Liverpool handed new Jarell Quansah verdict as transfer prediction made

Fabrizio Romano believes Jarell Quansah's situation at Liverpool is one to watch this summer after the England international has struggled for minutes under Arne Slot this season.

After a breakthrough campaign last time out, Quansah has started just two of a possible 32 Premier League games this season and as a result, Romano thinks he could be tempted to make a switch away from Anfield this summer.

“I’ll keep an eye on Jarell Quansah because he is very good and very talented,” said Romano. “But, I think, sometimes you want to play.”

Milos Kerkez Liverpool latest explained

Liverpool are reportedly "advancing" in their pursuit of Bournemouth and Hungary left-back Milos Kerkez.

The 21-year-old has been one of the Premier League's standout performers since joining the Cherries from AZ Alkmaar in 2023.

Now, the i Paper claims that the Reds are progressing in the pursuit of Kerkez this summer.

Good morning, Reds

Good morning and welcome to our LIVE Liverpool transfer blog.

Stay tuned throughout the day as we bring you all the latest news and rumours from Anfield, as Arne Slot's side edge towards a first Premier League title in five years.

Alisson exit demand

Turkiye Gazetesi report that Galatasaray have been talking with Alisson's representatives ahead of a potential summer move. The Liverpool goalkeeper has two years left on his contract at Anfield but there has been talk that he could leave.

And although Galatasaray have been exploring a possible move for the Brazilian, his eye-watering demands are expected to put the Turkish outfit off. It's reported that Alisson would want a whopping £21.33m per year if he were to join them this summer.

Galatasaray soon turned talks off as they cannot afford to pay that amount and Alisson won't be leaving Liverpool unless someone is willing to stump up that amount of money.

Liverpool and Everton want Rigg

Liverpool and Everton will 'battle' it out for Sunderland teenage star Chris Rigg, according to i News.

Arne Slot's Reds, alongside their Merseyside rivals, are both keen on snapping up the highly-rated 17-year-old, who has enjoyed a fine breakthrough season at Sunderland this season. Rigg has risen through Sunderland's academy and played 65 senior matches to date, finding the net on seven occasions.

Triple summer Liverpool exit

Liverpool are considering selling Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz this summer, as Arne Slot has not been impressed with the attacking trio, according to former scout Mick Brown.

Brown told Football Insider that Slot has not been best pleased with Nunez, Jota and Diaz, and is open to letting them leave the club in the summer transfer window.

He said: "They've finally reached agreements with [Mohamed] Salah and [Virgil] Van Dijk. Now, that will allow them to turn their attention towards the rest of their squad and the positions they feel need to be strengthened.

"From what I hear, Slot is not totally happy with the three forward players Diaz, Jota and Nunez. They want to better them in the window and so if they receive good enough offers for them, I think they’ll be prepared to let them go.

"There has been talk of interest in them so that situation might be one to watch. They’ll then use that money to sign new forwards who better suit their style.

"It’s important not to lose too many players if you aren’t able to replace them, especially from a title-winning squad, but they feel improvements can be made."

Jaros new contract

Liverpool Echo understands that goalkeeper Vitezslav Jaros is now in line for a new deal, having spent the 2024/25 season serving as the club's third-choice shot-stopper following the departure of Adrian last summer.

The Czechia international made his Premier League debut as a late substitute away at Crystal Palace back in October after first-choice Alisson Becker suffered a hamstring injury. He then made his full debut for the Reds against Brighton & Hove Albion in the League Cup later that month.

While that remains the limit of his senior involvement this season, the 23-year-old’s hard work has not gone unnoticed and he is in line for a new contract as a result.

Semenyo update

Liverpool are in danger of being left frustrated in a potential move for Antoine Semenyo as Bournemouth are not prepared to lower their demands this summer, according to GIVEMESPORT.

Semenyo has been a standout performer for the Cherries this season and scored the winner during their vital 1-0 win over Fulham on Monday.

However, if the Reds want to sign Semenyo, they will have to pay at least £70million for his services, as Bournemouth attempt to fend off interest and keep the Ghana forward.

Manchester United and Tottenham are also interested in signing Semenyo, as they look to strengthen their attacking options.

What Mohammed Kudus said about Liverpool amid transfer links

Mohammed Kudus believes Liverpool are 'the best team' in England after catching the eye of Arne Slot, writes Connor O'Neill.

The Hammers were beaten 2-1 by the Reds at Anfield on Sunday, to move one step closer to the Premier League title.

Liverpool had initially taken the lead in the first-half when Luis Diaz finished Mohamed Salah’s cross after just 18 minutes. But Graham Potter’s side restored parity four minutes from time when Andy Robertson turned the ball into his own net.

Read what the West Ham star had to say here.

Jorrel Hato exit claim

Jorrel Hato has decided to seek a move away from Ajax in the summer, according to reports in the Netherlands.

The defender has been linked with a number of Premier League clubs over the last 12 months, including Liverpool, and he could seek a fresh challenge when the window opens at the end of the season.

That's according to Dutch reporter Mike Verwejj, who addressed Hato's future on the latest De Telegraaf podcast.

“[Francesco] Farioli has asked a number of key players whether they want to stay for next season,” the reporter explained.

“Hato is doing so well [to attract the interest of] Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea. I do think he has left."

Liverpool truth rivals won't want to know after bizarre Premier League claim

This is arguably the worst Premier League season in the history of the competition, writes Ian Doyle.

And Liverpool are stumbling their way towards becoming unconvincing champions.

Well, at least that's what a growing voice of opinion from outside Merseyside would have people believe as the Reds continue their progress towards a record-equalling 20th championship.

From among opposing supporters, this is entirely understandable and has been part of the game for time immemorial.

The desire to devalue and denigrate the achievements of bitter rivals is a failing from which Liverpool fans are not immune.

Read the full analysis here.

Frankfurt set Ekitike 'price'

Liverpool are among the clubs rumoured to be interested in Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitike ahead of the summer transfer window.

However, according to the latest report from German outlet BILD, the Bundesliga club are expected to demand a fee in the region of €100 million (£85m) for the France youth international.

The article adds that interest from English clubs is growing, with the Reds, Manchester United and Arsenal among those linked in recent times.

Arsenal 'confident' in Zubimendi deal

Liverpool came agonisingly close to completing a deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi last summer, but the player instead opted to stay at his current club.

Now, the Spain international appears poised to complete a switch to the Premier League, but Anfield will not be his destination.

According to talkSPORT, Arsenal are growing in confidence that a deal to sign Zubimendi will be completed by early June.

There were fears Real Madrid could hijack a deal, but negotiations are reportedly progressing well and Arsenal intend to make him their first signing of the summer window.

Bournemouth 'resigned' to Huijsen exit

Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen is expected to be come the talk of the transfer window this summer with a number of top European clubs eyeing his signature, including Liverpool.

According to a recent report from talkSPORT, the Cherries are already resigned to losing the teenager. Huijsen's £50m release clause has sparked the attention of the Reds, along with Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal.

Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have also been linked, but the article goes on to state the youngster is expected to remain in England at this stage.

Mac Allister's camp respond to Real Madrid links

It appears Trent Alexander-Arnold is not the only Liverpool star Real Madrid are eyeing, with midfielder Alexis Mac Allister the latest to be linked with a move to the Bernabeu.

Reports in Spain this week suggest the La Liga giants have no interest in signing Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi, who was close to joining Liverpool last summer, but they are instead weighing up a move for Mac Allister.

However, the Argentine's father has responded to links and shut down the prospect of any imminent move abroad.

“Nothing to comment. Alexis is very happy at Liverpool, he’s under contract and wants to win there," he told outlet winwinallsports.

“It’s important to respect the club he’s playing for, any comment from us would be unnecessary.”