“There’s Massive Interest” – Journalist Names Three Liverpool Stars ‘Expected’ to Leave This Summer | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Changing of the Guard: Elliott, Chiesa and Kelleher Set to Depart as New Era Beckons

Liverpool’s triumphant return to the Premier League summit under Arne Slot was the headline of the season. In his first campaign at Anfield, the Dutchman masterminded a title-winning charge that showcased tactical innovation, squad harmony and ruthless consistency. But as with all periods of success, evolution is necessary to maintain momentum. This summer, it seems Liverpool’s transition will be both strategic and sentimental.

David Lynch, speaking to Dave Davis on the Anfield Index podcast, offered compelling insights into the likely exits of Harvey Elliott, Federico Chiesa and Caoimhin Kelleher. The podcast, rich in detail and laced with a journalist’s precision, painted a clear picture of what lies ahead at Anfield.

Frimpong and Wirtz Signal Future Direction

Reports strongly suggest Liverpool are closing in on Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz. Both are standout talents who bring flair, pace and versatility, traits that align perfectly with Slot’s dynamic system. The anticipated arrivals could spell the end for Chiesa and Elliott, each of whom may find themselves surplus to requirements despite their quality.

Chiesa, in particular, appears to be edging toward the exit. Lynch was unequivocal: “You’d 100% expect Chiesa to leave this summer. He’s going to want to go and play football somewhere and there will be interest in Serie A.” With links to Napoli gathering pace, it’s likely a deal will materialise sooner rather than later. “I would expect him to leave,” Lynch added, leaving little room for doubt.

Photo: IMAGO

Elliott’s Fate: Sentiment vs Strategy

Harvey Elliott’s potential departure is arguably the most bittersweet of the trio. A lifelong Liverpool supporter and highly-regarded prospect, Elliott has not quite managed to cement a consistent role in the squad. Lynch noted: “With Harvey Elliott, maybe there is a chance that he stays for another year just because they will want to manage the amount of turnover.”

Despite that flicker of hope, the writing seems firmly on the wall. “There’s going to be a lot of money put on the table for him,” Lynch explained, hinting at strong interest from abroad. “It’s a real shame as he is a boyhood Liverpool fan but it just looks like there isn’t a role available for him in the squad, so there’s a massive chance that he leaves.”

Photo: IMAGO

Should Wirtz arrive, the stylistic overlap with Elliott may make it an inevitable trade-off. And in footballing terms, sentiment rarely outweighs pragmatism.

Kelleher Departure All But Confirmed

The most certain of the trio to leave, Kelleher has been a loyal understudy to Alisson Becker but is now ready for regular first-team football. “We’ve been saying this with confidence for some time now that Kelleher is expected to leave,” Lynch confirmed. “There’s massive interest in him and he wants to go.”

Kelleher’s recent change of agents further underlines his intent. Liverpool’s acquisition of Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia seals the deal. As Lynch succinctly put it: “With Mamardashvili joining Alisson, they’re well-stocked in the goalkeeping department.” The club will not block Kelleher’s exit as long as they receive a fee reflective of his growing stature.

Photo: IMAGO

Summer of Transition, Not Turmoil

What Slot has done in one season is remarkable. But the measure of his long-term success will be shaped by the moves made in the coming weeks. While departures like Elliott’s and Kelleher’s may sting for supporters, they are emblematic of a squad being recalibrated for another title tilt.

Jeremie Frimpong’s speed and creativity offer something new at right wing-back, while Wirtz brings technical excellence and positional fluidity. Both represent upgrades tailored to Slot’s vision. And in parting ways with beloved figures, Liverpool are signalling that sentimentality will not cloud their ambition.

It’s a difficult balancing act, but Slot has earned the right to reshape this squad. With smart recruitment and a clear playing identity already embedded, Liverpool look set to continue their evolution from champions to a dominant force.