Arne Slot’s reported first transfer target as Liverpool boss once produced a ‘1000 IQ moment’ to save a certain goal.
After weeks of speculation, former Feyenoord manager Slot was announced as Liverpool’s new head coach on Monday.
A club statement read: “Liverpool Football Club can announce Arne Slot has agreed a deal to become the club’s new head coach, formally taking up the position on June 1, 2024, subject to a work permit.
“The 45-year-old will join the Reds from Feyenoord ahead of the 2024-25 season after a deal was reached with the Eredivisie club for his services.”
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Since being confirmed as Liverpool boss, it was claimed by Dutch news outlet De Telegraaf that Slot wants to go back to his former club in a bid to tempt goalkeeper Justin Bijlow to Anfield.
Liverpool have reportedly been scouting Bijlow for a while, sending scouts to watch him play in Champions League matches against Lazio, Atletico Madrid and Celtic last season.
Back in January 2023, Bijlow displayed his quick thinking to stop what would have been a certain goal.
Feyenoord was playing against FC Twente at the time and with his side leading 1-0, Bijlow rushed out of his goal to make a crucial tackle.
As a result, the ball went out for a throw-in, as Twente star Virgil Misidjan grabbed the ball to take a quick throw-in, Bijlow threw a ball onto the pitch which led to the game being stopped as two balls cannot be in play at the same time.
The referee booked Bijlow for his action but he took one for the team in order to prevent what could’ve been a certain goal.
Liverpool are reportedly set to face competition from fellow Premier League side Arsenal for Bijlow’s signature.
Last summer, it was claimed that Manchester United wanted to sign Bijlow but Erik ten Hag eventually decided to bring in Andre Onana from Inter Milan.
Back then, Feyenoord were believed to be demanding around €25 million for Bijlow, that amount is certain to go up this summer.
Marcus Chan