Liverpool’s latest transfer window has been anything but dull. With new arrivals and intriguing loan decisions, manager Arne Slot has put his stamp on the squad. While the transfer window might have closed, Liverpool’s business is far from over. This article dives into the latest developments at Anfield, from Stefan Bajcetic’s loan move to Red Bull Salzburg to the potential signing of free agent Adrien Rabiot.

Bajcetic’s Loan Move: A Masterstroke?

Liverpool’s decision to loan out Stefan Bajcetic to Red Bull Salzburg has raised a few eyebrows. At just 19, Bajcetic is one of the most promising young talents in Liverpool’s ranks, and Slot’s decision to send him to Austria instead of keeping him in Europe’s top five leagues has sparked debate.

Arne Slot provided insight into this move, stating, “I hope it will be a big year for him because he’s a very talented player. He’s been out for 15 months, and I think he could become a very important player for us, only if he gets playing time now.” Slot’s emphasis on regular football is key here. Bajcetic needs game time to develop, and with Liverpool’s crowded midfield, Salzburg might be the perfect platform for him to shine.

While some may argue that a move to a more competitive league would have been more beneficial, it’s clear that Slot values consistent minutes on the pitch over the prestige of the league. This could prove to be a wise decision in the long term, especially with Bajcetic being tipped for greatness at Anfield.

Adrien Rabiot: A Free Agent Option

The transfer window may have shut, but Liverpool could still add to their squad. Adrien Rabiot, the 29-year-old French international, remains a free agent after his contract with Juventus expired in June. Rabiot, who played a crucial role for France at Euro 2024, has been linked with several top clubs, including Liverpool.

With the Premier League allowing teams to sign free agents until mid-September, the Reds have a unique opportunity to bolster their midfield. Rabiot’s experience and versatility could be invaluable, especially with the added demands of Champions League football. However, questions remain about whether he would fit into Slot’s high-intensity style of play.

The prospect of adding a player of Rabiot’s calibre for free is undoubtedly tempting. Still, Slot will need to carefully consider how the Frenchman would integrate into a squad that already boasts a wealth of midfield talent. The decision to pursue Rabiot could hinge on the manager’s belief in his ability to adapt to Liverpool’s demanding playing style.

Chiesa’s Arrival: A Bargain Buy

Federico Chiesa’s arrival from Juventus has been one of the standout deals of the summer. The Italian winger, signed for a mere £10 million up front with potential add-ons, represents a shrewd piece of business by Liverpool. At 26, Chiesa is entering his prime and could play a crucial role in Liverpool’s attack this season.

Chiesa’s potential debut against Manchester United is highly anticipated, and fans will be eager to see how he adapts to the Premier League. With his pace, creativity, and eye for goal, Chiesa could provide the spark that Liverpool needs to challenge on all fronts this season.

Slot’s decision to bring in Chiesa at such a low cost highlights his ability to identify value in the transfer market. If Chiesa can replicate the form he showed at Juventus and during Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph, he could quickly become a fan favourite at Anfield.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a sceptical Liverpool fan’s perspective, the recent moves by Arne Slot could be viewed with cautious optimism. Stefan Bajcetic’s loan to Red Bull Salzburg, while logical from a developmental standpoint, does carry a risk. Salzburg is known for nurturing young talents, but whether Bajcetic can thrive in the less competitive Austrian league remains to be seen. The concern is that he might miss out on the pressure and pace of higher-tier football, which is crucial for developing a player ready to perform at Anfield.

As for the potential signing of Adrien Rabiot, the reaction is mixed. On the one hand, acquiring a player of his pedigree for free is an opportunity that’s hard to pass up. On the other hand, Rabiot has been known to be inconsistent and somewhat of a divisive figure in dressing rooms. Given Liverpool’s current midfield options, it’s unclear if Slot truly needs Rabiot or if this is more of an opportunistic move. The worry here is whether Rabiot’s arrival could disrupt the harmony of a squad already brimming with quality.

Federico Chiesa’s signing, however, is a cause for excitement. Despite the low transfer fee, there’s a sense that Liverpool might have struck gold. Chiesa has proven himself on big stages and could be the missing piece in Liverpool’s attacking puzzle. Fans are hopeful but will want to see if he can adapt quickly to the demands of the Premier League. The fear of another “Serie A flop” lingers, but Chiesa’s track record suggests that he has the potential to succeed where others have failed.

Statistical Analysis by EPL Index

Adrien Rabiot’s Performance Data: A Deep Dive

Adrien Rabiot’s recent performance data, as captured by FBref, presents an intriguing picture of the French midfielder’s contributions over the last 365 days. This analysis delves into his stats, shedding light on his multifaceted role on the pitch.

Attacking Contributions

Rabiot’s attacking metrics are a standout feature of his game. His percentile rankings for assists (81) and expected assisted goals (74) highlight his capacity to create opportunities for his teammates. With a non-penalty expected goals (npxG) percentile of 64 and non-penalty goals (83), it is evident that Rabiot poses a significant threat going forward. These stats underline his ability to influence the game not just as a facilitator but also as a goal scorer.

Defensive Capabilities

Defensively, Rabiot’s data reveals a player who excels in key areas. His aerial duel success rate is particularly impressive, sitting at the 81st percentile. Additionally, his ability to tackle dribblers, ranked in the 95th percentile, shows his effectiveness in one-on-one situations. These defensive metrics suggest that Rabiot offers more than just offensive flair; he also brings a robust defensive presence, making him a well-rounded midfielder.

Possession and Distribution

Rabiot’s possession stats present a mixed picture. His progressive carries rank high in the 87th percentile, reflecting his ability to advance the ball effectively. However, his passing accuracy and attempts fall into lower percentiles, indicating areas where his game could improve. While he excels in advancing play, his distribution might need refinement to better suit teams that rely heavily on possession.

Adrien Rabiot’s performance data provides a comprehensive look at his strengths and areas for potential growth. This versatile midfielder’s stats make him an asset in various tactical setups, especially in roles requiring both offensive and defensive contributions.