Liverpool are targeting Benfica midfielder Orkun Kokcu, potentially reuniting him with his former Feyenoord head coach Arne Slot at Anfield
Benfica midfielder Orkun Kokcu could have a potential reunion with former Feyenoord manager Arne Slot amid the interest from Liverpool. Kokcu has enjoyed a fantastic season with Benfica after joining them from Feyenoord during the summer transfer window of 2023.
The 23-year-old played under incoming Liverpool head coach Slot and developed into a fantastic midfield who attracted interest from Benfica. Kokcu played a pivotal role under Slot as captain during the 2022-23 season when the Dutch side won the Eredivisie.
Standing at 1.75 metres, Kokcu has a low centre of gravity that helps him shield the ball and maintain possession. He uses passes and link-ups more than attempting to take on the defenders, carrying the ball in open spaces.
The Turkey international is a brilliant passer of the ball and a creative force from the midfield, making progressive passes. He has brilliant technique on the ball and is capable of using both of his foot to pass and shoot.
Kokcu preferably plays as a central midfielder or as a central attacking midfielder but he is capable of playing deep. The 23-year-old has made 43 appearances for Benfica in all competitions, scoring seven goals and providing 11 assists this season.
The Turkish midfielder’s biggest drawback is his defensive output despite being a good presser of the ball for his team. He tackles and intercepts less than the level demanded by top teams.
According to the Turkish news outlet Fotospor, Liverpool are targeting Kokcu as a potential summer signing from Benfica. Kokcu has attracted interest from several top clubs in Europe despite playing only a season with Benfica.
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Liverpool currently have a stacked midfield with Harvey Elliott, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Ryan Gravenberch available. Furthermore, Alexis Mac Allister prefers to play a more advanced role than he did during the 2023-24 season.
Links with Kokcu could have originated from Liverpool’s appointment of Slot as the new head coach. The Reds have other departments to prioritize and if they are looking for a midfielder, the defensive midfield position needs attention.