As the festive season reaches its peak, the focus for Liverpool fans is shifting towards the imminent January transfer window. For manager Arne Slot and the Anfield hierarchy, this period is set to be critical in shaping the remainder of their campaign.
Injury Crisis Forces Liverpool into the Market
After 17 Premier League matches, Liverpool find themselves in fifth position, a standing that disappoints for the reigning champions. A promising start of five straight wins was followed by a damaging losing streak, though a recent five-match unbeaten run has offered some stability. However, a severe injury crisis, compounded by the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, has left the squad stretched thin.
The situation became markedly worse when star forward Alexander Isak suffered a broken leg following a heavy challenge from Tottenham's Micky van de Ven. The Swedish international requires surgery and faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines. With Mohamed Salah also set for a potential month away at AFCON, securing attacking reinforcements has become an urgent priority for the Reds.
Search for a New Striker Intensifies
While Hugo Ekitike has adapted well, the club cannot rely on him alone. Primary target Antoine Semenyo now appears to be heading to Manchester City after Chelsea withdrew their interest, forcing Liverpool to look elsewhere.
Potential alternatives being considered include Brentford's in-form Igor Thiago, who has scored 11 league goals this season. More established names like Ivan Toney or Dusan Vlahovic have also been mentioned, though the need is arguably for a versatile wide forward who can also lead the line. Expect Liverpool to be active in securing a new attacking option to add crucial firepower for the second half of the season.
Defensive Reinforcements: A Cut-Price Guehi Deal?
In defence, the long-standing interest in Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi is set to be revived. A move for the England international collapsed last summer despite a medical, but the landscape has changed.
With Guehi's contract expiring at the end of the season and Liverpool facing a defensive shortage—Giovanni Leoni is out for the season and Joe Gomez is currently unavailable—a January move makes sense. It is reported that Liverpool could table an offer of around £15 million to secure their long-term defensive target, who is viewed as a potential successor to Virgil van Dijk.
Midfield Considerations
Reports also suggest Liverpool are monitoring the midfield market. While Ryan Gravenberch has excelled in the defensive midfield role, and Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones have been impressive, the club is known to be assessing options.
Previous target Martin Zubimendi joined Arsenal, but players like Newcastle's Elliot Anderson or Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton—both enjoying fine seasons—could be of interest, though a January move for either seems challenging. Tottenham's Lucas Bergvall is another name that has been mentioned as a potential fit for Slot's system.
With significant funds already invested last summer, the pressure is on for Liverpool to make smart, impactful signings this January to rescue their league position and achieve their season's objectives.
