Liverpool already have two transfer signings sealed for Arne Slot ahead of busy summer window

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Liverpool are already busy preparing for what looks set to be another massive summer of transfer activity. And the Reds have already reaped the rewards of their efforts, having secured two signings who could prove pivotal in the years ahead.

It would be a major shock if Arne Slot's side were to match the £400million splashed on new recruits last summer. However, the Merseysiders are clearly not sitting on their hands while rivals eye potential targets.

With that in mind, chief executive officer Michael Edwards has already given the green light for two new acquisitions ahead of the summer transfer window. Both boast considerable promise in terms of their potential influence on Slot's backline in particular.

Jeremy Jacquet is the most notable new arrival set to be confirmed at the end of this season. The central defender will head to Liverpool from Ligue 1 club Rennes after both parties agreed a £60m deal back in January.

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There was speculation at the time that Jacquet could have made the move in the winter window, a period when Liverpool's defence appeared to be struggling. However, it was ultimately agreed that Rennes would retain the services of the 20-year-old for a further six months.

Slot might regret not pushing more forcefully for a January transfer, particularly given what has happened to Jacquet since. Namely, the shoulder injury he sustained against Lens in February, which required successful surgery earlier this month.

With a projected rehabilitation period of eight to 12 weeks, Jacquet could potentially arrive at Anfield not fully match-fit. However, his reduced playing time over the coming months at least diminishes any risk of a more severe injury occurring while he's outside Liverpool's supervision.

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The other confirmed transfer Liverpool have agreed in principle will see another centre-back join the club. However, Austria under-18 international Ifeanyi Ndukwe represents an even longer-term project, given he's still only 18.

Despite his youth, the 6'6" prospect has become a regular fixture in Austria Wien's reserve team. The youngster has featured 10 times in Austria's second tier this campaign, although he's yet to break into the senior squad.

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Since his switch to England was announced, Ndukwe has begun to rack up more substitute appearances for Austria Wien's senior side. Nevertheless, that coveted first-team bow has continued to elude him so far.

He has also progressed from Austria's under-17 setup to the under-18 level this season. He featured twice for the under-18s in back-to-back friendlies against Portugal last month, losing 1-0 in one and drawing 1-1 in the other.