3 days ago
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Liverpool is gearing up for the new Premier League season with the aim of retaining its title in a year's time.
Arne Slot's players are determined to keep their crown, having splashed out significantly in the transfer market. The Reds have welcomed former Bayer Leverkusen pair Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz, while Hugo Ekitike and Milos Kerkez also feature among their marquee signings.
But it seems Liverpool might not be done just yet. The Reds have also shown interest in Newcastle striker Alexander Isak and have already had a substantial offer rejected for the Swedish star. A center-back is also on their radar, with Marc Guehi attracting attention.
With only a few days left until Liverpool's Premier League opener against Bournemouth at Anfield, Slot has some tough decisions to make regarding his starting XI. These dilemmas may have increased following the unexpected loss to Crystal Palace in the Community Shield at Wembley.
Liverpool.com provides a glimpse at the potential line-up for Friday...
In goal, Slot's decision appears relatively straightforward. Alisson has long been Liverpool's first choice and will continue to be so despite the summer acquisition of former Valencia player Giorgi Mamardashvilli.
Moving onto defence, two summer signings are expected to be drafted straight into the starting line-up. Jeremie Frimpong will likely take up the position on the right, following his goal at Wembley.
Former Bournemouth player Milos Kerkez is also set to start against his ex-team. Despite interest in Guehi, it seems highly unlikely that the defender will make it to Anfield before Friday's match, meaning both Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate are expected to feature on the teamsheet.
There could be a midfield spot up for grabs. Hungarian maestro Dominik Szoboszlai is likely to start, provided he remains injury-free over the next week.
Even though Curtis Jones started at Wembley, Argentine midfielder Alexis Mac Allister is making strides in his comeback, having come off the bench. If he doesn't suffer any setbacks, he looks set to return to the starting line-up.
Supporters will then have the chance to see Florian Wirtz make his Premier League debut as he takes on the number 10 role. Speaking of new signings, a few could find themselves in what promises to be a dynamic Liverpool front three.
Egyptian star Mohamed Salah is a staple in Slot's team and will take his usual place on the right. Hugo Ekitike is also likely to feature following his goal at Wembley, although he could potentially shift to the left, replacing Cody Gakpo.
Considering Slot's need for a new forward, it wouldn't be far-fetched to imagine him wanting Isak in his starting line-up. It seems improbable that a deal will be finalized in the coming days, but if there's a genuine possibility of signing him, the club will undoubtedly pull out all the stops to get his signature.
Liverpool's dream starting XI vs Bournemouth: Alisson Becker; Jeremie Frimpong, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Milos Kerkez; Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, Florian Wirtz; Mohamed Salah, Hugo Ekitike, Alexander Isak.
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