Liverpool is keeping tabs on three Ajax players ahead of Arne Slot's first major summer transfer window.
The Dutchman has made just one signing since his arrival from Feyenoord last year - Federico Chiesa - although Giorgi Mamardashvili’s transfer has been confirmed. But it’s ahead of the 2025/26 season that the new recruitment structure with Slot and Richard Hughes at the head will be tested.
And it wouldn’t be a surprise for Slot to look to his homeland when it comes to possible new recruits. Jorrel Hato has been linked with Liverpool already and was even seen in attendance at a Reds home game earlier this season.
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According to TBR Football, the Reds sent scouts to watch the left-back last weekend as Ajax beat Go Ahead Eagles 2-0. But the Liverpool representatives were also keeping tabs on Hato’s team-mates Anton Gaaei and Mika Godts.
The latter has been likened to ex-Chelsea star Eden Hazard, the report adds, and has started 23 games this season for Ajax despite being aged just 19. As for Gaaei, the right-back is said to be on Liverpool’s radar with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future remaining uncertain. The 22-year-old Dane is an attacking option from defense and can also play in a more advanced role if required.
Meanwhile, Liverpool is being linked with a move for Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba. Football Insider claims the Reds see the 21-year-old as a player "with a good range of passing while also having the ability to carry the ball forward and drive the team further up the pitch."
Chelsea may provide competition for the Brighton star, in a transfer saga that could evoke memories of the tussle over Moises Caicedo in 2023. Football Insider adds it would take a hefty fee to lure Baleba away from the Amex, something Liverpool is fully aware of.
It comes as former Bernard Tchoutang told his fellow Cameronian to choose Liverpool over Chelsea. “For me, Liverpool is the club that would suit him best,” he said. “I'm not just saying that because they're by far the best team in the Premier League this season and one of the strongest in Europe.
“Arne Slot's system of play would suit him very well. The Reds like to attack, press and make quick transitions. We also know that this is a club that knows how to trust young players and give them responsibility. As for Chelsea, I'm not sure it would be a good choice. The team is having a decent season, but it's a step below Liverpool or Arsenal.”
