Liverpool transfer news as Arne Slot could battle Manchester United for a $58M midfielder and the Reds are said to have an advantage in any potential race for Kees Smit.
Liverpool face another pivotal summer in the transfer market, regardless of how the remainder of the 2025/26 season plays out. With Arne Slot’s side currently occupying a Champions League spot but still needing to secure it over the final seven fixtures, squad evolution remains a priority.
As Virgil van Dijk noted last weekend: “If there is still a chance, then I am always confident. But we have to do better, of course… things have to change for us to deserve [a Champions League place].”
Whatever European football awaits next season, reinforcements will be required. Here is the latest on two midfield targets generating serious interest around Anfield.
Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid)
Manchester United are seriously considering a move for Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga this summer, with Liverpool also previously linked to the 23-year-old Frenchman.
The Old Trafford club are expected to need a new central midfielder after deciding against offering Casemiro a new contract, while Manuel Ugarte has failed to meet expectations. Other names such as Sandro Tonali, Carlos Baleba, Bruno Guimarães, Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton have also been connected with United.
Camavinga, contracted at the Bernabéu until 2029, is reportedly open to assessing his future. Though still young, he has frequently been deployed out of position at left-back under Carlo Ancelotti. A Premier League switch would allow him to return to his preferred central-midfield role, where his dynamism and technical quality could flourish.
Liverpool.com verdict: Camavinga remains a high-calibre talent, yet he fits the familiar pattern of Real Madrid players consistently linked with exits that rarely materialise — the same narrative that has surrounded Aurélien Tchouaméni. Any pursuit by Liverpool would represent a statement signing, but history suggests patience may be required before anything concrete develops.
Kees Smit (AZ Alkmaar)
Liverpool and Arsenal currently lead the race for AZ Alkmaar’s 20-year-old midfielder Kees Smit, primarily because both clubs are viewed as the most likely among interested Premier League sides to offer Champions League football next season.
Newcastle United are also keen, while Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona have been credited with interest. Smit has already featured in 40 senior appearances this season, including UEFA Conference League matches, contributing four goals and eight assists across all competitions.
Liverpool.com verdict: At 20, Smit is a genuine prospect who would benefit most from a club prepared to guarantee him regular first-team minutes. While Champions League football is attractive, a move to a side where he can develop consistently — even if that means slightly less immediate European prestige — could prove the smartest long-term choice.
With the summer window still months away, both Camavinga and Smit represent contrasting but intriguing options for Slot’s midfield. The former offers proven elite pedigree and immediate impact potential; the latter symbolises investment in youth with significant upside. Liverpool’s ability to balance immediate needs with long-term squad building will define whether these links translate into genuine business — and whether the Reds can indeed steal a march on their rivals in what promises to be a fascinating transfer period.
