British newspaper The Times reports that legendary former Netherlands defender and ex-Beşiktaş head coach Giovanni van Bronckhorst may soon join Liverpool’s back-room staff. The 50-year-old tactician, club-less since his Turkish stint, is negotiating to take up the role of assistant to the Merseysiders’ new manager, Arne Slot.
The Reds are assembling a coaching team around Jürgen Klopp’s compatriot, and Van Bronckhorst is viewed as a key figure in strengthening the Dutch flavour within the club. His appointment would ensure continuity of ideas, as Slot—who succeeded the iconic German—values his countryman’s ability to work with young players and adapt swiftly to the standards of the Premier League’s elite level.
Should the deal go through, Van Bronckhorst will take over from John Heitinga. The latter, previously Slot’s assistant, has already left Liverpool to return home and take charge of Ajax.
Since parting company with Beşiktaş at the end of last season, Van Bronckhorst has been out of work. In Turkey he oversaw 20 competitive fixtures, recording 10 wins, four draws and six defeats. Despite the relatively brief spell, he proved adept at reshaping a side and steering a team out of difficult stretches.
Reports indicate that the parties are close to an agreement, with the final contractual details expected to be ironed out in the coming days. If negotiations conclude successfully, Slot will gain an experienced lieutenant, while Van Bronckhorst will get the chance to relaunch his career at one of world football’s most prestigious clubs.
