€30M star "would love" to join Arne Slot at Liverpool, club "already expecting his departure"

Feyenoord defender Lutsharel Geertruida has expressed a strong interest in joining Liverpool, with reports indicating that he "would love" to follow manager Arne Slot to Anfield this summer.

Sources in the Netherlands have revealed that Geertruida, who has captained Feyenoord this season, attended Liverpool's 2-2 draw at West Ham last Saturday.

According to De Telegraaf's Marcel van der Kraan, the 23-year-old's visit to London Stadium came during time off from training, fueling speculation about a potential move to Merseyside.

The reports suggest that Geertruida is "ready for a transfer," and his desire to join Liverpool aligns with Feyenoord's expectations.

They are “already expecting his departure” apparently.

The Dutch club, which has already agreed to a compensation package to allow Slot to replace Jurgen Klopp at Anfield, recognises that Geertruida wants to take the next step in his career.

Geertruida's contract with Feyenoord is set to expire in the summer of 2025, and it's "unthinkable" for the club to let him leave on a free transfer.

This means they could be compelled to sell him in the upcoming transfer window unless he agrees to a new contract.

Last year, RB Leipzig were quoted a fee of €30 million (£25.7m) for Geertruida, according to Bild, and the same valuation is expected if Liverpool make an approach.

While it's unclear whether Liverpool will actively pursue Geertruida, his connections with Slot and the ongoing need for defensive reinforcements make him a compelling option.

With Joel Matip set to leave Anfield at the end of the season, a vacancy opens up in Liverpool's defensive ranks.

Geertruida could offer Liverpool versatility, age, and potential.

The Feyenoord academy graduate has made 195 appearances for the club, most frequently as a right-back but also playing at centre-back, left-back, and even defensive midfield. At just 23, Geertruida has demonstrated leadership, captaining Feyenoord 25 times under Slot's guidance, making him the most-used player in the coach's career.

Although Slot will have a say in recruitment, Liverpool's sporting director Richard Hughes will be primarily responsible for signings.