Liverpool Are Nearly Champions – But This Summer Will Define What Comes Next

Liverpool are on the verge of reclaiming the Premier League title. Just one more win confirms their return to the summit of English football, capping off what’s been an impressive debut season for Arne Slot at Anfield. Taking over from Jürgen Klopp was never going to be easy, but the Dutchman has steered the team with authority and composure, putting together a side that looks set to finish the season as champions.

Yet for all the praise this campaign deserves, it’s hard to ignore that cracks have started to show as the run-in has progressed. Their early Champions League exit at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain and League Cup final loss to Newcastle, followed by a slight dip in form towards the end of the domestic season suggest that a summer rebuild may be needed if Liverpool want to defend their upcoming crown in style.

Strength at the Core, but Signs of Wear

One of the most reassuring developments has been the long-term commitment of both Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk. In a season full of transition, their presence has provided the kind of leadership that every new manager needs to rely on. Salah continues to deliver goals and assists at a world-class rate, while Van Dijk has rediscovered much of the composure and dominance that made him a Ballon d’Or contender not long ago.

But other parts of the squad are beginning to show their age or inconsistency. Andy Robertson, such a key figure in Liverpool’s modern resurgence, has struggled to hit the same levels. Injuries have played a part, but the energy and sharpness he once brought to the left flank has faded and he now appears to be playing second fiddle to Kostas Tsimikas. A long-term solution at left-back should now be on the radar.

The forward line, too, feels short of complete options. Darwin Núñez continues to divide opinion, his movement is often intelligent, and he works tirelessly, but the finishing remains inconsistent for a player signed with such fanfare from Benfica. Diogo Jota, meanwhile, has been plagued by fitness issues and hasn’t managed to string together a run of form. When Salah is unavailable or off the pace, Liverpool currently don’t have a reliable and consistent alternative to lean on.

Ryan Gravenberch has been one of the more promising stories this season, adapting well to a deeper midfield role. His athleticism and ability to progress the ball have helped Slot maintain a dynamic midfield structure, but depth is still a concern. Wataru Endo is the wrong side of 30, and while Alexis Mac Allister is technically gifted, he's often had to shoulder too many responsibilities both with and without the ball.

A Pivotal Summer Window

If Liverpool are to sustain their momentum, this summer’s transfer window will need to be proactive rather than reactive.

At left-back, Milos Kerkez of Bournemouth stands out as a realistic option. The 21-year-old Hungarian has handled his first two seasons in the Premier League with confidence, showing defensive discipline and plenty of potential going forward. He could quite easily replace Robertson immediately, but with Manchester City also looking at Kerkez, Liverpool could look to ride out another season with their current tandem of left backs.

Up front, Alexander Isak would be a statement signing. The Swedish striker is hitting better and better numbers for Newcastle and would bring a mix of Premier League experience, technical ability and consistent finishing. The challenge, of course, would be prising him away from St James’ Park at a justifiable price. Newcastle will reportedly demand a figure close to £150 million for the Swede, which may tempt Liverpool to look elsewhere. A more attainable option might be Benjamin Šeško of RB Leipzig. At just 21, he already looks ready for a bigger stage, and Liverpool’s healthy relationship with Leipzig, forged through the Szoboszlai and Konaté deals, could help ease negotiations.

Midfield could also see further reinforcements. Martin Zubimendi was a reported target last summer, but interest now seems to have shifted towards Arsenal. An alternative might be Angelo Stiller, who has quietly impressed for Stuttgart this season. Calm in possession and tactically aware, he could offer balance and cover without needing to immediately start every week.

And then there’s the right-back situation. With Trent Alexander-Arnold looking all the more likely to leave for Real Madrid, Conor Bradley has shown he’s more than capable of stepping in. The 21 year old's performances in the early part of the year while Alexander-Arnold was injured were mature, composed and tactically intelligent. If Liverpool decide against a big-money signing at right-back, Bradley is a viable internal solution.

A Title Is Imminent, But So Is a New Era

Winning the Premier League in your first season is a remarkable achievement. Arne Slot will rightly take plaudits if the title is secured, especially after stepping into the void left by Klopp’s departure. But the job doesn’t stop there.

This summer represents an opportunity for Liverpool to not just celebrate, but consolidate. The squad is still packed with talent, but it needs sharpening. New blood is essential if Liverpool want to avoid the kind of post-title drop-off that has hurt other challengers in recent years.

The foundations are in place. But it’s what happens next that will determine if this is a new Liverpool dynasty, or just a brief return to the top.