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A Sky Sports reporter was manhandled while trying to speak to Liverpool’s latest managerial boyfriend, Feyenoord boss Arne Slot.
Slot has become the number one contender to succeed Jurgen Klopp and talks are developing rapidly with Liverpool, who could even complete a deal this weekend. They could pay more than £10m in compensation for him.
Journalist Gary Cotterill grabbed a moment with Slot after getting off the Feyenoord team bus ahead of the Eredivisie match against Go Ahead Eagles tonight, but had to be careful not to get too close.
A member of Slot’s entourage put his hand on his shoulder and finally stepped between Cotterill and the Dutchman, interrupting the chat.
For Liverpool fans, the fact that Slot smiled when asked about his links with the club is an encouraging sign.
Feyenoord boss Arne Slot smiled when Sky Sports reporter Gary Cotterill greeted him and asked him about the Liverpool job.
However, a member of Slot’s entourage was adamant in Cotterill’s handling and stood between them.
Slot emerges as the favorite candidate to replace Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool
The 45-year-old won the Eredivisie last season and this season has brought a KNVB Cup to Feyenoord’s trophy cabinet.
His possession, attacking and pressing style has earned him flattering comparisons with Jurgen Klopp, Pep Guardiola and Johan Cruyff.
And he was more than happy to have a chat with Sky Sports, while concentrating on the task at hand.
“You’re on the news,” Cotterill said as he greeted Slot.
“I am,” a beaming Slot admitted.
“You said you wanted to go to the Premier League. Is that a possibility?” they asked him.
“I can’t deny it,” Slot replied.
“Liverpool love you, though,” Cotterill said as Slot walked away.
“But tonight we’re playing the Go Ahead Eagles,” was the response.
Slot has won the Dutch league and cup in recent seasons with Feyenoord.
Cotterill wished him good luck and Slot thanked him.
With Jurgen Klopp resigning at the end of the season, Liverpool have been searching through a carousel of managers to replace him.
The dream candidate at first was Xabi Alonso, a former Red who led Bayer Leverkusen to their first Bundesliga title and a currently undefeated season.
However, when Alonso stated his intention to stay in Germany, hearts turned to Sporting CP coach Ruben Amorim, who has the Portuguese club on course to win its second league title in four years.
However, Liverpool’s interest in Amorim has cooled and he flew to London for talks with West Ham earlier this week.