The dream XI—Alisson; Frimpong, Guehi, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Wirtz; Salah, Isak, Gakpo—combines new high-profile signings with established stars, signaling an ambitious transfer strategy by sporting director Richard Hughes.
This potential squad, bolstered by a reported £280 million spending spree, has ignited optimism, with fans on X describing it as “terrifying” and capable of securing a domestic double.
Goalkeeper and Defense: A Solid Foundation
Alisson Becker remains the cornerstone in goal, widely regarded as one of the world’s best, despite the arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia as a long-term successor. At 32, Alisson’s presence is vital for Liverpool’s success, though Mamardashvili’s signing suggests a gradual transition.
The back four is set to undergo significant changes. Jeremie Frimpong, signed from Bayer Leverkusen for £34 million, replaces Trent Alexander-Arnold, who joined Real Madrid on a free transfer in June 2025. Frimpong’s attacking flair and dynamism make him a natural fit for Slot’s system, though his defensive adjustments in a back four are a point of discussion.
In central defense, Virgil van Dijk, fresh off a two-year contract extension, continues to lead as captain alongside Ibrahima Konate. However, the potential signing of Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, linked as a replacement for Jarell Quansah (who is set to join Leverkusen), adds further quality.
Guehi’s £50 million price tag reflects his status as an England international, and his inclusion could solidify Liverpool’s backline. On the left, Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, valued at £40-45 million, is expected to take over from Andy Robertson, whose offensive output has waned. Kerkez’s marauding style and crossing ability draw comparisons to a younger Robertson, promising an upgrade for the long term.
Midfield: Blend of Grit and Creativity.
The midfield trio of Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Florian Wirtz is a blend of defensive solidity and attacking ingenuity. Gravenberch has been a revelation under Slot, thriving as a deep-lying midfielder after a lackluster first season under Jurgen Klopp.
His 49 appearances in 2024/25, starting every Premier League game, underscore his importance as the squad’s anchor. Mac Allister’s versatility allows him to operate as a No. 8 or deeper, complementing Gravenberch with his technical prowess and 13 goals and 11 assists in 90 appearances.
The marquee addition is Florian Wirtz, signed from Bayer Leverkusen for a club-record £126 million. The 22-year-old German, who turned down Bayern Munich and Manchester City, brings unrivaled creativity, with 70 open-play chances created during Leverkusen’s 2023/24 Bundesliga title win and 12 assists in 2024/25.
His role as a No. 10 could see Dominik Szoboszlai relegated to a rotational spot, though Slot’s admiration for the Hungarian might lead to tactical tweaks to accommodate both. Fans on X have hailed Wirtz’s arrival as a “game-changer,” with his ability to operate between the lines expected to unlock defenses.
Attack: Firepower and Versatility.
The forward line of Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, and Cody Gakpo is a dream scenario for Liverpool supporters. Salah, who signed a two-year extension in April 2025, remains the talisman, with 29 goals and 18 assists in 2024/25, matching the Premier League record for goal involvements.
His playmaking evolution adds another dimension to Liverpool’s attack. Gakpo, with 18 goals in 48 appearances in 2024/25, has solidified his role on the left wing, outshining Luis Diaz, who faces an uncertain future amid interest from Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
The most ambitious target is Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, valued at up to £150 million. His 25 goals in the 2024/25 season make him a prime candidate to replace Darwin Nunez, who is linked with Napoli and Atletico Madrid.
Isak’s proven Premier League pedigree and four goals in six games against Liverpool make him a “dream signing,” though his price tag poses a challenge. Alternatively, names like Atletico’s Julian Alvarez and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike have been floated as more attainable options.
Fan and Pundit Reaction.
The proposed XI has generated significant excitement, with X posts describing it as “absolutely terrifying” and predicting a title defense with “insane dynamics.” Pundit John Gibbons on BBC Radio 5 Live noted the challenge of fitting Wirtz into a crowded midfield, suggesting Slot’s flexibility will be key.
However, concerns linger about the feasibility of signing Isak and the integration of new full-backs, with some questioning whether Frimpong’s attacking style suits a traditional right-back role. Despite these, the consensus is that this squad, blending youth, experience, and star power, positions Liverpool to dominate domestically and in Europe.
Challenges Ahead.
While the lineup excites, challenges remain. The departure of Alexander-Arnold and the tragic loss of Diogo Jota in a July 2025 car accident have left emotional and tactical voids.
Integrating high-profile signings like Wirtz and potentially Guehi or Isak requires careful management, especially with Liverpool’s pre-season tour, including a friendly against AC Milan in Hong Kong, looming. Slot’s ability to balance his squad and maintain the cohesion that led to the 2024/25 title will be crucial.
