Liverpool may yet raid Belgian giants Club Brugge before the summer transfer window slams shut on August 30th.
Liverpool’s 2024 summer transfer window has been notably slow, frustrating fans and raising concerns about the club’s strategy under new head coach Arne Slot.
Despite a strong need to reinforce the squad, particularly in the defensive midfield position, Liverpool has struggled to secure significant signings.
The club’s attempts to land top targets like Martin Zubimendi fell through, leaving fans disappointed and questioning the club’s lack of a “Plan B.”
The pursuit of Zubimendi was seen as a key move, but his decision to stay at Real Sociedad has left Liverpool scrambling with limited time remaining in the transfer window.
As of now, the club has yet to announce any major incoming transfer.
While sporting director Richard Hughes forecasted a ‘crescendo’ of transfer activity in August, the fans are yet to see this prediction manifest into reality.
This slow start is in stark contrast to the club’s previous transfer windows, where Liverpool was known for securing key players early.
This time last summer, the signings of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai were already completed.
With the Premier League season set to begin, the pressure is mounting on the club’s hierarchy to make crucial signings before the window closes on August 30.
Liverpool eye versatile Club Brugge defender Maxim De Cuyper
Liverpool are one of a number of European giants eyeing young Brugge defender Maxim De Cuyper according to Belgian outlet Nieuwsblad Sport.
Maxim De Cuyper primarily plays as a left-back, but his versatility allows him to operate effectively as a left wing-back or even a left midfielder.
Known for his pace, dribbling, and crossing ability, De Cuyper is a modern full-back who excels both defensively and offensively.
A number of clubs have tried to ‘seduce’ the 23-year-old in recent months, including Real Betis, Sevilla, Arsenal, Ajax and Marseille.
In the 2023/24 season, De Cuyper impressed.
He made 33 appearances in the Belgian Pro League, contributing significantly to both defense and attack.
De Cuyper scored five goals and provided eight assists during the campaign, showcasing his ability to influence the game in the final third.
His consistent performances earned him praise from pundits and fans alike, and he was regarded as one of the best young players in the league.
However, Brugge are well aware of the circling clubs, and have recently renewed his contract until 2028 – ensuring his value remains high.
Journalist Pieter-Jan Calcoen notes:
“Because Club [Brugge] assumes that De Cuyper will only get better, that could have caused problems next summer.”
“Then Club could have ended up in a situation where De Cuyper might not want to extend because he could take a step higher.”
“And then the blue and black, with only one year left on his contract at the time, would have to sell him on less attractive terms.”
De Cuyper was part of the Belgian squad for the European Championship.
It then seems that it is only a matter of times before De Cuyper makes the jump to a bigger league, it’s just a question of whether it’s at Liverpool or elsewhere.
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