Liverpool have reached an agreement on a compensation package with Feyenoord for the services of Arne Slot, according to The Athletic.
The 45-year-old Dutchman is now poised to join Liverpool in the summer following the conclusion of Feyenoord’s Eredivisie campaign.
The Reds started talks with Slot on Wednesday as they explore the possibility of him replacing manager Jurgen Klopp, who announced back in January that he would depart the club at the end of the season.
Slot is the preferred candidate of Fenway Sports Group chief Michael Edwards and incoming director of football Richard Hughes.
Feyenoord assistant coach Sipke Hulshoff and head of performance Ruben Peeters are set to join Slot at Liverpool.
Just before Feyenoord’s match against Go Ahead Eagles on Thursday night, Slot openly expressed his desire to join Liverpool.
He told ESPN: “I’d like to become the new Liverpool manager, my decision is clear, it’s no secret.
“Feyenoord and Liverpool are in talks to negotiate, I’m waiting to see what will come out of it. I am confident, waiting for the clubs to reach an agreement.”
Feyenoord assistant Sipke Hulshof is poised to join Slot at Liverpool, and there’s consideration for other staff members like head of performance Ruben Peeters and analyst Etienne Reijnen to make the move as well.
However, Feyenoord intend to retain some of their backroom staff and will strive to keep as many as possible.
Despite Feyenoord’s willingness to let Slot depart, chief executive Dennis the Kloese aims to ensure that the club is appropriately compensated should he join Liverpool.
Slot’s imminent appointment received an endorsement from Klopp during his press conference on Friday afternoon, preceding Liverpool’s Premier League clash against West Ham United.
“I’m not involved in the process, but I like a lot about it if he is the one and wants to take the job. I like the way his team plays football,” Klopp said.
“All the things I hear about him as a guy – a good guy. Some people I know, know him.
“I don’t know him, but some people who know him say he’s a good guy.
“I like that a lot. So a good coach, a good guy.
“Looking forward for the club, if he is the solution, if he is the man, I am more than happy.”
The German added: “Best job in the world. Best club in the world, and it helps, obviously, with not finishing on a high, it looks like. Great job, great team, fantastic people.
“[Slot] ‘would’ [Klopp makes quote marks sign with his fingers] be taking a really interesting job.”
Read More Liverpool Coverage:
- Arne Slot Confirms Desire To Become Liverpool Manager
- Liverpool Open Talks With Feyenoord Over Appointing Arne Slot As Jurgen Klopp Replacement
- Liverpool Eye Arne Slot As Jürgen Klopp’s Successor
- Liverpool Forward Diogo Jota Ruled Out For Two Weeks