Liverpool squad 2025: Key players for transfer or retention – Who should stay or go?

‎Despite sitting 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League under new manager Arne Slot, Liverpool finds itself in a period of uncertainty, with several key players' futures at Anfield hanging in the balance. As the international break ends and league play resumes, the club is grappling with the impending free transfers of star players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is reportedly on the verge of a move to Real Madrid.

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‎Liverpool's 2025 squad decisions: Who should stay and who should go?

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‎The frustration among Liverpool fans has been palpable, with many questioning the club's management for allowing Alexander-Arnold to enter the final months of his contract, effectively losing a multi-million-pound asset for nothing. He isn't the only key player in a similar situation, as both Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk will also be out of contract soon, creating further concerns about Liverpool's squad depth.

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‎While the team has been successful this season, particularly in the league, their inability to consistently compete on multiple fronts has highlighted a lack of squad depth. As Liverpool's ownership, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), is known for its financial prudence, player sales will likely play a crucial role in funding new signings this summer.

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‎To provide clarity on the squad's future, we examine every Liverpool player to have made at least one Premier League appearance this season, considering whether they should stay or be sold in the upcoming transfer window.

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‎Alisson Becker

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‎Alisson remains one of the world's top goalkeepers, as evidenced by his crucial performance in the Champions League against PSG. However, with Giorgi Mamardashvili set to join from Valencia and reportedly unwilling to serve as a backup, Liverpool faces a dilemma. Despite his age (32), Alisson’s form continues to impress, but if a substantial offer arrives—such as the interest shown by Saudi clubs last summer—Liverpool may consider selling.

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‎Verdict: Keep—unless a massive offer is received.

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‎Federico Chiesa

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‎Chiesa’s time at Liverpool has been overshadowed by injuries and limited playing time under Slot. Despite struggling to regain full fitness after his move from Juventus, the Italian winger demonstrated his quality with a crucial goal in the Carabao Cup final. However, Slot’s failure to integrate Chiesa into the team more consistently has raised questions about his future. If his playing time does not improve next season, Chiesa’s stint at Anfield may come to an early end.

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‎Verdict: Sell—if Slot is not going to give him more opportunities.

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‎Conor Bradley

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‎Bradley is well-positioned to step into the void left by Alexander-Arnold’s departure. Having showcased his potential with a standout performance against Real Madrid in the Champions League, the young Irishman’s defensive abilities, particularly in one-on-one situations, set him apart. While concerns remain over his fitness for a full campaign, Bradley is expected to play a key role next season, whether as a starter or backup to a new signing.

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‎Verdict: Keep.

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‎Luis Diaz

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‎Luis Diaz has shown improvement this season with nine goals, making it his most prolific campaign at Liverpool. However, his inconsistency and lack of end product remain sources of frustration. Diaz’s dribbling ability and versatility in playing through the middle are still valuable assets, yet with Cody Gakpo emerging as a preferred left-wing option, Liverpool might be open to a sale if a significant offer arrives, particularly from long-time admirers, Barcelona.

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‎Verdict: Sell – but only for the right price.

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‎Harvey Elliott

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‎Elliott, turning 22 in April, finds himself at a crossroads in his Liverpool career. Although his versatility and contributions off the bench are evident, his failure to secure a Premier League start this season raises questions about his role in Jürgen Klopp’s successor’s plans. With uncertainties about his best position, it could be a good opportunity for both Elliott and the club to seek new ventures.

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‎Verdict: Sell at the right price.

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‎Wataru Endo

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‎Endo has developed a cult following as a reliable option from the bench. However, he has yet to start a Premier League match this season, signaling a mismatch with the club’s strategic direction. As the 32-year-old is not suited to the type of defensive midfielder desired, his days at Anfield appear numbered.

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‎Verdict: Sell if he continues as a bench option.

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‎Joe Gomez

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‎The versatile defender has missed significant time due to injury but remains an invaluable utility player for Liverpool. Gomez, turning 28 in May, will need to decide whether to fight for a starting spot at Anfield or pursue regular first-team football elsewhere.

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‎Verdict: Keep, if he’s committed to fighting for a spot.

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‎Cody Gakpo

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‎Despite struggles post-injury, Gakpo has proven his worth with 16 goals in 25 starts this season. His form, particularly before injury, suggests he remains an essential part of Liverpool’s attacking plans. Gakpo’s potential makes him a keeper for the long term.

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‎Verdict: Keep.

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‎Ryan Gravenberch

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‎Gravenberch has grown into his role, providing much-needed stability in the midfield, particularly after missing out on a key summer target. The 22-year-old has been a consistent presence for Liverpool this season and is integral to their future.

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‎Verdict: Keep.

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‎Vitezslav Jaros

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‎Though Jaros' appearances have been limited, his reliability as a backup goalkeeper is critical. Given the uncertainty surrounding Liverpool’s goalkeeper situation, he is expected to stay as a trusted second option.

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‎Verdict: Keep.

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‎Curtis Jones

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‎Jones has the talent and versatility to be a significant part of Liverpool's future, though he must overcome past injury concerns to establish a consistent starting role. As the only Liverpudlian likely to feature regularly, Jones has a big role to play in the team's plans.

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‎Verdict: Keep.

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‎Diogo Jota

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‎Jota's injuries have hindered his development, and his form since returning has been disappointing. Given his ongoing struggles, it seems unlikely he’ll feature prominently under Liverpool’s new manager.

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‎Verdict: Sell.

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‎Ibrahima Konate

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‎Konate possesses immense talent and potential but remains prone to lapses in concentration. If PSG's rumored interest is legitimate, Liverpool might consider selling if a strong offer arrives, as his inconsistencies could impact the team.

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‎Verdict: Sell if the price is right.

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‎Alexis Mac Allister

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‎Mac Allister has been a standout performer for Liverpool, showcasing his technical prowess and versatility. At just 26, the World Cup winner is expected to remain an essential part of the squad for years to come.

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‎Verdict: Keep.

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‎Darwin Núñez

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‎Núñez has failed to live up to expectations as Liverpool’s primary striker, contributing only five Premier League goals. With doubts surrounding his future at Anfield, selling him could free up funds for a more reliable forward.

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‎Verdict: Sell to fund a striker replacement.

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‎Jarell Quansah

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‎Quansah showed early promise but hasn’t progressed as anticipated this season. With Newcastle reportedly interested, Liverpool may look to cash in on the 22-year-old if a strong offer materializes.

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‎Verdict: Sell for the right price.

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‎Andy Robertson

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‎Robertson’s once-dominant performances have slowed, with the full-back no longer a constant threat in attack. His defensive frailties and lack of goal contributions suggest that Liverpool may seek a new left-back in the summer, but Robertson could still serve a vital role as a mentor for his replacement.

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‎Verdict: Keep – to guide his successor.

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‎Mohamed Salah

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‎Salah remains indispensable to Liverpool, continuing to produce at a world-class level. Despite his advancing age, Salah’s ability to contribute to Liverpool’s title challenge makes him irreplaceable. Keeping him at Anfield is non-negotiable.

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‎Verdict: Keep.

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‎Virgil van Dijk

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‎Van Dijk remains the rock of Liverpool’s defense, essential for the team’s stability. His leadership and quality make him irreplaceable, and Liverpool must prioritize offering him a new contract.

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‎Verdict: Keep.

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‎Caoimhin Kelleher

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‎Kelleher, frustrated by Liverpool’s pursuit of another goalkeeper, may decide to move on. With interest from several mid-level Premier League clubs, a summer transfer could be on the horizon, providing Liverpool with funds and Kelleher with a new opportunity.

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‎Verdict: Sell.

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‎Dominik Szoboszlai

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‎Szoboszlai’s all-around contributions have been crucial in Liverpool’s title race, even if his end product has drawn criticism. With his work rate and ability to press, the Hungarian is a key figure in the squad and should remain.

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‎Verdict: Keep.

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‎Kostas Tsimikas

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‎Tsimikas has made strides in challenging Robertson for the left-back role but has been unable to take over the position. At 28, he will likely seek regular first-team football, meaning a move away might be in his best interests.

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‎Verdict: Sell.

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‎As Liverpool face a crucial summer, the club must navigate these uncertainties, balancing player sales and acquisitions to maintain their league dominance. With key decisions ahead for high-profile players like Alexander-Arnold, Salah, and Van Dijk, the summer transfer window promises to be a pivotal moment in the club’s ongoing transition.