Romano’s Liverpool transfer update as Ajax target Lijnders

Robin Bairner

• 28 Mar 2024 08:23 GMT
• 3 min read

Fabrizio Romano has outlined the conditions Liverpool are placing on their pursuit of a new centre-back ahead of the summer transfer window.

The Reds face a period of upheaval with the departure of manager Jurgen Klopp, and Romano states that much of their summer plans will hinge upon who the Anfield club elect to succeed the German.

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This includes the centre-back position, which is likely to need reinforcement given that Joel Matip could leave the club as a free agent following a serious knee injury earlier this season.

Romano explains on the Daily Briefing: “It’s not time for concrete names yet, as again the crucial part will be Liverpool’s next manager. We have to wait for the coach to understand who’s the player they want, how much they want to invest on that position - Liverpool have always involved the manager in their transfer plans.”

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Lijnders to Ajax?

Klopp is not the only member of Liverpool’s backroom staff who is moving on. It has already been confirmed that assistant boss Pep Lijnders is on his way, too.

And Romano has confirmed that he could be ready to take the spotlight at Ajax, with the Amsterdam club chasing a deal.

“Liverpool assistant Pep Lijnders has emerged as one of the candidates to be the new Ajax manager for next season. Lijnders is under consideration at the club, but still waiting on a decision. For sure, he will be leaving Liverpool alongside Jurgen Klopp - he’s not staying on beyond the end of this season,” he adds.

“Lijnders is really appreciated around Europe as people believe he’s an excellent assistant and could become a very good head coach. Ajax have included his name in a shortlist for next season, but he’s not the only one.

“For sure, Ajax will change manager and begin a new chapter in the summer, and for sure Lijnders will leave Liverpool as he’s also ready for a new challenge after great work alongside Klopp at Liverpool.”