Arne Slot had hailed former pupil Mats Wieffer on his Brighton move but has quashed any rumours about a Liverpool link, insisting he never spoke to the player about such a transfer.

The new head coach is thrilled for the Dutch midfielder's Premier League leap from Slot's former club Feyenoord but hopes he doesn't feel the need to prove too much against the Reds.

The Netherlands defensive midfielder was briefly linked with a possible move to Liverpool, but his path has led him to join Brighton instead. With reports circulating of a late Reds' interest - claims made by Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf - Arne Slot has set the record straight.

Slot shared his pride for Wieffer's big career step after their time together at Feyenoord. An emotional Slot remarked on Viaplay (as noted by 1908.nl): "I think it's especially great for him, when you see where he comes from.

"That he can make the step to the Premier League two years after he came from Excelsior, that's great for him. It's fantastic for him, but also for Feyenoord, because it's the biggest transfer in the club's history."

Addressing the Liverpool speculations with a knowing smile, Slot clearly stated: "No, I have not spoken to Mats. I think it is very nice to meet him, but I hope he does not want to prove too much to his old coach."