Benfica's Orkun Kokcu has been of , stating how pivotal he was for his career . The Reds are said to have shown interest in snagging Kokcu recently, with the speculation heating up during the summer transfer window.

It's reported that the midfielder has a massive $158 million buyout clause at Benfica, but whispers hint he might be snatched up for $100 million. frequently pops up in the gossip columns as a likely destination for the 23-year-old talent.

Slot, who's making waves in his inaugural season as Liverpool's head coach, knows Kokcu from their days together in the Dutch league when he managed Feyenoord. It was under Slot that Kokcu found his form before heading over to Benfica in the summer of 2023.

The player has reflected on his growth under Slot's tutelage at Feyenoord, particularly pointing out the added responsibilities he shouldered after a Premier League transfer failed to materialize. "Arne Slot is like a father. He made me who I am. He is the best coach in the world," Kokcu expressed to TRT Spor, quoted by Record.

"When my old coach [Arne Slot] took over, I had a big breakthrough in his first season. Still, I think my performance that season was very good. I actually wanted to transfer in the summer; some of the big clubs in the top six in England were interested in me.

"We had serious talks about a transfer, but it didn't happen at the last minute. The following season, Arne Slot made me captain of the team, and that responsibility increased my performance even more."