Transfer Centre

Eredivisie attacker is "waiting" for Liverpool amid Arne Slot reunion rumours

By Oliver Thomas, Senior Reporter | 01 July 2024

An Eredivisie attacker admits that he is "waiting" for Liverpool to make a move for his services this summer amid reported interest from Arne Slot's side.

Feyenoord attacker Igor Paixao has admitted that he is "waiting" for Liverpool to make a move for his services this summer amid reported interest from Arne Slot's side.

The 24-year-old was signed by Feyenoord in 2022 under the tutelage of Slot, who has since succeeded Jurgen Klopp in the Anfield dugout this summer.

Paixao swapped Brazilian side Coritiba for Feyenoord and in his first season at the Dutch club, he was part of Slot's side that won the Eredivisie title and reached the Europa League quarter-finals, chipping in with nine goals and six assists in 37 appearances.

The versatile winger then scored 12 goals and provided four assists in 45 games last season as Feyenoord won the KNVB Cup and finished as runners-up in the Eredivisie.

Paixao has since been tipped to follow Slot to the red side of Merseyside and the Brazilian has responded to such rumours about a potential reunion with his former manager.

Feyenoord's Igor Paixao celebrates scoring their first goal with teammates on February 15, 2024 © Reuters

Paixao responds to Liverpool speculation

Speaking to Brazilin news outlet Globo Esporte, Paixao said: "I only see this on social media. (The fans) don't want me to leave Feyenoord, but it doesn't depend on me. Together with my agents and the board of directors we will decide the best path to follow.

"I'm listening and watching on social media. A lot of people are always tagging me and asking: are you going to Liverpool? I don't know anything, I'm just waiting. But Dutch football is really cool. The intensity is what makes it different."

Asked about his personal relationship with Slot, Paixao added: "He also helped me when I arrived, in my development, and I felt like I was helping him. It's good that everything worked out.

"He did an exceptional job with our squad. I just have to thank him and wish him success at Liverpool. He will be missed, but he has to keep working."

Arne Slot who has been appointed Liverpool head coach from June 1, the club have announced on June 5, 2024 © Imago

Feyenoord are under no immediate pressure to sell Paixao, who still has three years remaining on his contract with the Dutch giants.

Paixao is not the only Feyenoord players who has been tipped to reunite with Slot at Anfield, as versatile defender Lutsharel Geertruida is believed to be firmly on Liverpool's radar.

However, a recent report claimed that the 23-year-old is open to the prospect of completing a move to Paris Saint-Germain and has already been presented with a contract offer by the Ligue 1 champions.

Liverpool have also been linked with another Feyenoord defender in the form of David Hancko, but the Reds have allegedly turned down the chance to sign the Slovakia international.