Latest developments
- Liverpool want to sign Anis Hadj Moussa from Feyenoord.
- Arne Slot approved of the Algerian's arrival at the Dutch club.
- The Reds see him as a back-up to Mohamed Salah.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Trusted name breaks story
Liverpool want to sign Algerian international Anis Hadj Moussa from manager Arne Slot's former club Feyenoord this month.
Pete O'Rourke, one of the top UK transfer reporters, broke this story on footballinsider247.com, and though Hadj Moussa never played under Slot, the Dutchman greenlit his arrival late last season before taking over the Liverpool hotseat from Jurgen Klopp.
Value (4/5): Feyenoord can make quick profit
That arrival was from Belgian side Patro Eisden for just £2.9 million, after an impressive loan spell at Vitesse. Eight goal involvements in 19 appearances for Feyenoord have seen his market value rise to almost £10 million.
With Hadj Moussa under contract until 2029, Feyenoord will be in no hurry to sell. However, the chance to make a quick, substantial profit might be enough to let him leave.
Suitability (4/5): Slot can get best from him
Slot is obviously a fan of the 22-year-old, who he can deploy in his preferred position of right-winger, as part of the 4-2-3-1 formation he has introduced at Anfield.
With Feyenoord having continued to use that same formation since Slot's departure, it would be a seamless transition on grass. As an added bonus, Hadj Moussa can also do a job in behind the centre-forward or on the left.
Upgrade? (2/5): Salah still top dog
He will be seen as the long-term replacement for Salah on the right side. In the event of a January move, he would be an understudy to the Egyptian for the rest of the season.
Depending on Salah's contract situation, that might go on beyond 2024/25 – though in that scenario, Salah's age increasingly plays into Hadj Moussa's hands the longer time goes on.
Regardless of how Salah's contract saga ends, Liverpool do need some cover at right-wing, and Hadj Moussa looks more than capable of playing a few minutes here and there.
Logic (4/5): Great learning curve
He may only have been challenging for the Dutch title for half a season, but the chance to learn from one of the greats in his position – and likely pick up a Premier League winners' medal – looks too good to turn down.
The Reds, meanwhile, will be taking a risk on an inexperienced player, but have time to mould him into the winger they need.
Whisper+ verdict: 17/25
Liverpool might need some assurances over the Salah situation before progressing further with this, but Slot's previous involvement makes this one to watch.
