Reports suggest that Liverpool has shown interest in ex-Feyenoord midfielder Orkun Kökçü. This is not the first time that the Turkish international has been linked with The Reds.
According to the Portuguese outlet Record, Liverpool has already scouted the 23-year-old. Another Lisbon-based outlet Correio de Manha claims that The Reds are pushing for the midfielder’s arrival at Anfield.
Kökçü, currently at Benfica has come through the ranks of Feyenoord. He has spent the majority of his career in Rotterdam and has had a major influence from Arne Slot.
Slot was the manager who developed the midfielder into who he is today. Orkun himself has thanked the Dutch manager on many occasions for helping him through the difficulties of professional football.
It was difficult, there was a lot in my head. The trainer was one of the few who knew about it. He is more than a trainer, he understands exactly how to deal with people.
-Orkun Kökçü
Orkun arrived at Benfica just last season. In the 2024/25 campaign, the Turkish international has already scored four goals and assisted three in nine matches for The Eagles.
He ended last season with seven goals and 11 assists while appearing 43 times for the Portuguese outfit. Kökçü is off to a better start this season as he might have gotten used to life in Portugal.
Previous links with Liverpool and release clause
Arne Slot has had a major influence on Orkun Kökçü at Feyenoord
Orkun Kökçü has been linked with Liverpool many times before. There were also rumours before his move to Benfica when he was thriving under current Liverpool manager Arne Slot.
The genuineness of these claims is debatable as many Liga Portugal players are linked with The Reds every year. However, Arne Slot’s connection adds a different dimension to these claims as Liverpool could use another versatile midfielder in their setup.
The reported release clause for Orkun Kökçü’s services is around £67 million, a hefty price tag for a 23-year-old midfielder. However, his potential and experience are still valuable and can be used in the Premier League.
Kökçü primarily plays as a No.10 but he has developed into a versatile midfielder who can play anywhere in the middle of the park.
Arne Slot is credited with developing the 23-year-old from a pure No.10 into a machine. Orkun’s versatility means he brings a mix of creativity and defensive capabilities to the table.
The Turkish international has also credited Slot for curing his insomnia which caused him problems both on and off the field.
