Liverpool eyeing move for 'the next Luka Modric' to become Arne Slot's first signing

Liverpool are reportedly eyeing a move for a midfielder that has been compared to Real Madrid legend Luka Modric.

On Sunday afternoon, Anfield bid an emotional farewell to Jurgen Klopp as the German’s successful tenure came to a close with a 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.

After weeks of speculation, it was finally confirmed on Monday evening that Dutchman Arne Slot will become the new Liverpool head coach on June 1.

Looking ahead to the summer transfer window, Liverpool have been tipped to make a move for Benfica midfielder Orkun Kokcu.

As reported by Turkish news outlet Fotospor, Kokcu has attracted interest from Liverpool having previously worked under Slot at Feyenoord.

During the 23/24 season, Kokcu managed seven goals and 11 assists in 43 matches across all competitions for the Portuguese club.

According to Football Oranje, Kokcu had a release clause of €150 million inserted in his contract when he moved to Benfica in 2023.

Kokcu, 23, has previously been compared to Madrid and Croatia star Modric.

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Back in 2022, former Liverpool, Juventus and PSG midfielder Momo Sissoko said: “I’ve seen him play in different positions, he made a good impression on me both as a central defender and as an attacking midfielder. He’s perfect as a pivot in a three-man midfield, Juve are looking for a profile like his to improve the squad.

“I get out of balance and answer Modric, for me he has the same quality of play. He has the potential to reach his level.”

Liverpool underwent a midfield overhaul last summer after the departures of Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, James Milner, Alex Oxlade Chamberlain and Naby Keita.

The Anfield club then brought in the likes of Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch.

Mac Allister has impressed since joining the club but the other midfield additions have struggled to settle.