Liverpool manager Arne Slot is braced for a pivotal January transfer window as he aims to strengthen his squad for a crucial second half of the Premier League season.
The Reds have been relatively quiet so far this month, with the sole arrival being 18-year-old prospect Mor Talla Ndiaye, who is expected to join the club's U21 set-up. This follows a summer of significant investment, but with the team currently sitting fourth and 14 points behind leaders Arsenal, further reinforcements are being sought to salvage their title defence.
Juventus Prepare Improved Offer for Federico Chiesa
According to reports from Italy, Juventus are readying a second, improved offer to take Federico Chiesa back to Turin. The Italian winger has struggled to make an impact at Anfield since his 2024 move, making just 35 appearances under Slot.
This season has been especially difficult for the 28-year-old, who has failed to secure consistent playing time even during Mohamed Salah's absence at AFCON and amidst injuries to other forwards. Juventus' initial loan proposal with an option to buy was reportedly rejected, prompting them to formulate a new offer featuring a loan with an obligation to purchase the player.
Liverpool Enter £52m Battle with Real Madrid
In a separate development, Liverpool look set for a direct transfer clash with European giants Real Madrid. The object of their desire is AZ Alkmaar's highly-rated midfielder, Kees Smit.
The 19-year-old Dutch wonderkid has impressed in the Eredivisie, attracting monitoring from Anfield scouts. However, Real Madrid are also keen, setting the stage for a potential bidding war. Smit is valued at around £52 million, though the final fee could exceed that figure if a competitive auction ensues. Newcastle United have also been linked with the player in recent times.
Liverpool's interest stems from a search for more consistent control in midfield this season, with Smit viewed as a potential solution alongside existing options like Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister.
Marc Guehi Holds Liverpool as Preferred Destination
Liverpool are also poised to revive their pursuit of long-term defensive target Marc Guehi. The club came close to signing the Crystal Palace captain in the summer, only for the deal to collapse at the last minute.
In a significant update, it is reported that Guehi considers Liverpool his preferred destination this January, despite heavy interest from Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich. Sky Sports journalist Kaveh Solhekol notes there is currently "no favourite" in the race, but the player already understands how he would fit into Slot's system.
Despite his contract expiring in the summer, Crystal Palace are believed to want a fee in the region of £35 million to sanction a mid-season departure. Liverpool must now decide whether to meet that valuation or risk waiting to secure him on a free transfer later in the year.
The coming weeks promise to be decisive for Arne Slot's plans as he seeks to mould a squad capable of closing the gap at the Premier League summit.
