Liverpool decide top transfer priority a day after Arne Slot's exit with superstar lined up

Liverpool have stepped up their pursuit of a top transfer target this summer despite Arne Slot's shock exit.

Slot was relieved of his duties on Saturday afternoon after a poor second season in charge.

Despite winning the Premier League in his first campaign with the Reds, Slot faced criticism for his style of play and lack of emotion in press conferences.

Liverpool didn't intend on parting ways with Slot when the final whistle blew against Brentford last weekend. The club intended to continue with Slot, but a fresh end-of-season review sealed the Dutchman's fate.

In a statement, Liverpool stressed that change was necessary to keep moving forward. They managed to qualify for the Champions League, although their points tally of 60 was the lowest in a decade.

The summer already promised to be one of change on Merseyside thanks to several player exits. Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson had already confirmed their departures, while Ibrahima Konate is set to leave after failing to reach an agreement over a new contract.

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Liverpool decide on long-term Salah replacement

Even without a manager in place, replacing Salah's goal output will be vital for Liverpool's leadership in the transfer market.

Sporting director Richard Hughes knows Liverpool can't stand still in a market which has seen Manchester United and Manchester City take strides to seal deals for midfielders Ederson and Elliot Anderson, respectively.

It's believed Hughes' favoured appointment for the management position is Andoni Iraola, with whom he worked alongside at Bournemouth. Iraola left the Cherries at the end of the season.

Per teamTALK, Hughes is using the opportunity to accelerate talks for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande. The 19-year-old is open to a transfer after scoring 12 goals and registering nine assists in 33 Bundesliga appearances this term.

Bayern Munich are aware of his exploits but would prefer to wait until 2027 to make a move. Liverpool, on the other hand, are ready to explore a deal likely worth up to £87million to get him through the door.

When asked about his future earlier this month, the Ivory Coast international replied: "My contract here is until 2030, so I have four more years. What's going to happen afterwards? I don't know. I am a Leipzig player.

"I will never forget this opportunity. It's not only about playing football, but the club helped me a lot off the pitch. The media only sees me on the pitch, but the club helped me a lot with my family and my mom.

"The only thing I can do for them is to give everything on the pitch and this is what I'm trying to do every day."