Slot Urges Liverpool to Pursue Napoli's Beukema

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has urged the club's recruitment team to pursue a summer transfer for Napoli centre-back Sam Beukema, whom he has admired for years, as the Premier League club eyes defensive reinforcements ahead of the 2026 window.

The 27-year-old Dutch defender joined Napoli from Bologna last summer in a deal worth around 31 million euros and remains under contract until 2030. He has made 30 appearances across all competitions this season, including 22 in Serie A with 16 starts and five in the Champions League. Napoli would consider offers above 30 million to 35 million euros but hold no intention of selling.

Slot's interest dates back to his time at Feyenoord, when he attempted to sign Beukema from Go Ahead Eagles. He has since communicated his high regard for the player directly to Liverpool's sporting director Richard Hughes and the recruitment department, placing Beukema on the club's defensive shortlist.

Liverpool's pursuit aligns with ongoing efforts to bolster centre-back depth. Virgil van Dijk, now 34, anchors the backline, while Ibrahima Konate's contract expires this season. Konate indicated progress on a new deal in an April 20 interview with BBC Sport,...