The club are planning to break the transfer record to sign Liverpool's “gem”.

In the new era under Arne Slott, a number of changes could be on the cards for Liverpool this summer, which could see some value come out of the record-breaking deal.

Liverpool transfer news

Up front, the Reds have placed their hopes in the hands of Michael Edwards to complete the rebuilding of Liverpool 2.0 and give Slot a great start in the coming months. This has seen them linked with the likes of Johan Bakayoko and even Real Madrid star Rodrygo in what could be a blockbuster start to Slott's tenure.

Liverpool's end of the season showed that there is still plenty of room for improvement if they are to become English champions again, having finished third in Klopp's last campaign. Losses against Crystal Palace and Everton saw the wheels come apart in their title race, but a new-look Liverpool side still showed plenty of energy throughout the campaign, even winning the Carabao Cup.

It was a trophy win full of young talent showing their worth at a proud moment for those at Anfield. But now it's a forgotten gem the Reds could jettison this summer.

According to Bild, Mainz 05 are planning a club record bid to sign Sepp van den Berg on a permanent deal this summer after the defender's successful loan spell this season. The deal could be worth a reported €10m (£9m), which would break the Bundesliga club's previous record of €8m (£7m). It is no surprise that they are looking for a permanent deal, after Van den Berg was ranked as the Bundesliga's best defender by WhoScored this season.

That said, Liverpool themselves are likely to be impressed with their new loanee, who could follow the same path as Jarell Quansah by breaking into the first team next season.

“Very good” Van den Berg deserves a chance at Liverpool

If Slot is like Klopp, then if the young players are good enough, they will get a chance at Liverpool. And Van den Berg has proven his quality in the Bundesliga, which should see him given a chance before the season and beyond at Anfield. Although it will be frustrating for Mainz if they miss their goal, a defender who has shown such quality will always be a top pick.

Van den Berg received praise even before his spell at Mainz, with former Preston North End manager Alex Neil telling the Lancashire Post during the defender's loan spell: “I thought Sepp played very well. We knew Sepp was good on the ball, quick and good size in terms of defending crosses in the box. I thought his performance was really good and he would enjoy it.”

Now, it could be Liverpool who will ultimately benefit if they retain the 22-year-old and give him the opportunity he already has this season.