Liverpool is set to offload two players this summer following new manager Arne Slot’s decision to exclude them from the first team’s pre-season training, according to Sportskeeda. Central defenders Rhys Williams, 23, and Billy Koumetio, 21, have been training with the Under-21s, indicating they are not part of Slot’s plans for the upcoming season.
Williams has made 19 appearances for Liverpool across all competitions, while Koumetio has featured twice for the senior team. With Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, and Ibrahima Konate ahead of them in the pecking order, their chances of breaking into the first team appear slim.
Interest from other clubs has already emerged, with Williams attracting attention from teams in Turkey and League One, and Koumetio reportedly having suitors in France and Scotland.
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Slot’s exclusion of Williams and Koumetio from first-team training suggests a squad trimming strategy and a desire to bring in fresh talent. Liverpool aims to resolve their central defensive situation ahead of the new season, especially with uncertainty surrounding Virgil van Dijk’s contract extension until recently.
Fortunately, reports indicate that Van Dijk is now willing to extend his deal at Anfield, which is reassuring for Reds fans. His commitment is crucial as Liverpool prepares for the upcoming season.
For Williams and Koumetio, their future at Liverpool seems uncertain, and they will likely seek moves to clubs offering regular playing time to further their careers.