Florian Plettenberg: Five Liverpool players who could leave this summer | OneFootball

Five Liverpool Players Who Could Leave in the Summer

Liverpool are bracing themselves for a pivotal summer in 2025, with a squad overhaul on the cards following two largely inactive transfer windows. The club’s approach in recent years has been cautious, but that restraint looks set to be abandoned as key figures weigh up their futures and decisions are made on those deemed surplus to requirements.

A Changing of the Guard at Anfield

For a club that prides itself on smart recruitment, Liverpool’s recent reluctance to dip into the market has been notable. Last summer’s only signing was Federico Chiesa for a modest £10 million, while January passed without reinforcements—one of only five Premier League clubs to abstain from mid-season additions.

This conservative approach, particularly in the face of heavy spending from rivals, has fuelled frustration among supporters. However, reports from Sky Sports Germany suggest that a busy window lies ahead. With uncertainty surrounding the futures of Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold—all entering the final year of their contracts—Liverpool’s squad could undergo major changes.

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Departures are also expected, with journalist Florian Plettenberg reporting that five players—Caoimhin Kelleher, Wataru Endo, Harvey Elliott, Federico Chiesa, and Diogo Jota—are potential candidates to leave the club.

Wataru Endo: An Uncertain Future

Wataru Endo’s time at Liverpool has been a curious one. Signed in 2023 as a stopgap solution for midfield reinforcements, the Japan international quickly earned the trust of Jürgen Klopp. However, under Arne Slot, his role has been significantly reduced.

Photo: IMAGO

Despite being a reliable performer, Endo has made just two starts under the Dutchman, typically featuring as a late substitute to help see out matches. Slot has spoken positively about his impact, but at 32, Endo’s long-term future at Anfield remains uncertain.

Harvey Elliott: A Frustrating Season

Harvey Elliott’s Liverpool career has been a story of promise and patience. Capable of producing game-changing moments—such as his Champions League heroics against Paris Saint-Germain—he has struggled for consistent game time this season.

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Despite his talent, the 21-year-old has started just four matches under Slot, a significant drop from his more regular involvement in Klopp’s final campaign. With midfield competition fierce and minutes hard to come by, Elliott could be tempted by a fresh challenge elsewhere.

Federico Chiesa: A Misfit in Liverpool’s System

When Liverpool secured Federico Chiesa for £10 million last summer, it was seen as a shrewd piece of business. Yet, the Italian international has found opportunities scarce.

Photo: IMAGO

With Mohamed Salah, Luis Díaz, and Cody Gakpo ahead of him in the pecking order, Chiesa has yet to make a single Premier League start. Whether he can force his way into Slot’s plans remains to be seen, but at present, his situation appears unsustainable.

Diogo Jota: Quality Undeniable, Availability Questionable

Diogo Jota’s ability is not in doubt. A clinical finisher with intelligent movement, he has proven himself one of the Premier League’s most efficient forwards when fit.

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However, fitness has been his biggest issue. Persistent injury setbacks have disrupted his rhythm and frustrated Liverpool’s hierarchy. Given the club’s need to refresh the squad and raise funds for reinforcements, Jota’s future is under scrutiny.

Caoimhin Kelleher: Time for a No.1 Role

Of all the potential departures, Caoimhin Kelleher appears the most certain. The Republic of Ireland international has never hidden his ambition to be a first-choice goalkeeper, and with his contract expiring in 2026, this summer represents Liverpool’s last realistic chance to secure a significant transfer fee.

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With Alisson Becker firmly established as Liverpool’s No.1, Kelleher may seek an exit to fulfil his ambitions elsewhere.

A Summer of Change

After two subdued transfer windows, Liverpool’s next moves will be decisive. The futures of these five players are under review, and with major contract situations to resolve, Anfield is set for a fascinating summer of transition.