Slot dismisses speculation…

Arne Slot has opted not to comment on the future of Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker as speculation mounts regarding a possible summer transfer.

Liverpool has exercised the one-year extension in Alisson’s contract, ensuring his stay at Anfield until June 2027. However, the Brazilian keeper, who has been out for over a month due to a muscle injury, is rumored to be a target for Juventus.

Slot stated in a press conference prior to Liverpool’s upcoming match against Crystal Palace, “My priority right now is to get him back on the pitch as quickly as possible.”

“All these rumors about him and perhaps myself or others—we do not engage with speculation here, nor in my discussions with [sporting director] Richard [Hughes].”

“We only address situations when there are concrete facts, and that’s not the case right now. Alisson’s sole focus is to recover and be back on the field for the club he loves, and eventually for the national team he intends to represent—Brazil. That’s the immediate and medium-term goal.”

Alisson is racing against time to regain fitness ahead of Saturday’s match against Palace, with Freddie Woodman likely to start in goal, given that Giorgi Mamardashvili has also sustained an injury during Liverpool’s previous game against Everton.

Slot’s squad will also miss striker Hugo Ekitike, who faces an extended recovery period following surgery to repair an Achilles injury.

Slot commented on Ekitike’s situation, saying, “The surgery went well, which is a crucial first step. However, the rehab process will be lengthy, and there are several important milestones before we can estimate a timeline for his return.”

“It’s going to take a while, and while we cannot pinpoint an exact recovery duration, the surgeon indicates it will be measured in months.”

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“Rehabilitation will depend on how his recovery progresses. He is an explosive player, which can complicate recovery from such an injury, but he may prove to be an exception.”

“At this point, the essential fact is that the surgery was successful, allowing him to focus on recovery, which will take significant time. However, he will return stronger, just like others who have faced lengthy injuries. Regarding Giovanni Leoni, I’ve seen some club Instagram posts—he is going to be a force.”