Arne Slot rocked by shock departure days after lifting Premier League title as Liverpool replacement search begins

Liverpool could be hit with a shock departure just days after lifting the Premier League trophy.

It has been a magical season for the Reds as they managed to win the 24/25 Premier League title during Arne Slot's first campaign in charge.

On Sunday, Liverpool lifted the trophy in front of a jubilant crowd inside Anfield after a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace.

Looking ahead, the Reds are set to be active in the summer transfer window, with Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, and Milos Kerkez all heavily linked with moves to Anfield.

However, it has been claimed that Liverpool could lose a key member of their coaching staff.

Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano has reported that Slot's assistant, John Heitinga, is close to leaving the club and that the process of finding a replacement has started.

He wrote on social media: "EXCL: Liverpool gives permission to John Heitinga for talks with Ajax as negotiations to become the new head coach are advanced.

"Liverpool have begun the process of looking at replacements if the Heitinga deal goes through, as looks likely."

John Heitinga has been linked with a move away from Liverpool. Image: Getty

Last summer, Slot explained the decision to bring in ex-Everton man Heitinga as his assistant.

He said: "Premier League experience. John has played many games in the Premier League and last season he was an assistant coach at West Ham, so brings experience as a player, but also as an assistant in this league.

"He worked with someone that I know really well, and the two of us have quite a similar playing style, so I think it’s not going to take long for him to understand exactly what we want with the players."

After 140 matches for the Toffees, Heitinga played for the likes of Fulham, Hertha BSC and Ajax being calling time on his career.

The Dutchman then moved into coaching and has worked at Ajax and West Ham United before being lured to Liverpool by Slot.