Arne Slot to Liverpool announcement delayed as 'behind-the-scenes' problem emerges
Arne Slot's move to Liverpool has been delayed due to complications surrounding Euro 2024. The 45-year-old has already revealed there's an agreement in place with the Reds to take over from Jurgen Klopp at the end of the season following positive talks with new decision-maker Michael Edwards.
However, Slot has acknowledged that there are still some details to be sorted out. The Dutchman intends to bring along his assistant Sibke Hulshoff, second assistant Etienne Reijnen and head of performance Ruben Peeters from Feyenoord – but there's an issue.
According to the Mirror, Liverpool, who have already agreed to pay the Eredivisie side an £11m compensation package for Slot, have been informed they will need to fork out an additional £2m for his coaching staff. The report states that the situation has been further complicated by Hulshoff, who's set to deputise Ronald Koeman as Netherlands assistant head coach at the European Championships.
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The Mirror add that Liverpool want him to tie him down to a contract from July 1, before the tournament concludes. Slot recently told a group of Dutch reporters about his impending move to Anfield, remarking: "I can't reveal the details right now, but it is not about my contract.
"There are a combination of factors which is the cause why there is no announcement yet. But don't worry. It will happen. I know I have been saying this every time over the past week, but I do expect that it really is a matter of days now. Some things just need more time."
Slot is also searching for a new goalkeeping coach after John Achterberg, a loyal servant of the club, chose to follow Klopp out of Anfield. He's due to accept an offer to work alongside Steven Gerrard at Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have been gearing up for a clash against Aston Villa, who are hungry for a top-four finish, on Monday night. This match will precede the final game of Klopp's memorable tenure against Wolves.
The emotional Sunday game at Anfield will no doubt tug at heartstrings. Despite the recent stumble in their quest for more silverware, the German manager is determined to wrap up his tenure on a high note.
A match against Unai Emery's well-drilled team will be nothing short of a tough challenge. Klopp has previously voiced his optimism, stating: "We have the chance to go above 80 points again.
"You should never take things like that for granted. Vila will want to have a good last home game because they have played an incredible season. They are likely to qualify for the Champions League.
"Unai is doing an incredible job but we will definitely give it a try. He is one of the best in the business, 100 per cent. Wherever he has been he has had success. The job he is doing at Villa is exceptional. He always organises his team extremely well and we all know how important it can be for a club to qualify for the Champions League."