Liverpool manager Arne Slot faces a pivotal January transfer window as he aims to bolster his squad for a trophy push, while also contending with potential high-profile departures from Anfield.
The Reds have stabilised after a difficult start to the season and currently occupy fourth place in the Premier League. Following a public disagreement with star forward Mohamed Salah in November 2025, Slot's focus is now firmly on recruitment and squad management this month.
Liverpool's Three Primary January Targets
The club, which invested a massive £415 million in the summer on signings like Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, is now targeting specific reinforcements.
Marc Guehi - Crystal Palace
Liverpool's long-standing interest in England defender Marc Guehi continues. A £35 million move collapsed last summer when Crystal Palace withdrew at the last minute. With Guehi's contract expiring in the summer, a free transfer then is possible, but competition from clubs like Real Madrid and Bayern Munich could force Liverpool's hand earlier. However, reports suggest Palace are determined to keep him for the rest of the campaign.
Antoine Semenyo - Bournemouth
Ghanaian forward Antoine Semenyo, with nine goals and three assists in 17 games this season, is in high demand. Liverpool's sporting director Richard Hughes, who helped sign Semenyo for Bournemouth in 2023, provides a key link. Despite this, Manchester City are the strong favourites to activate his £65 million release clause before January 10.
Yan Diomande - RB Leipzig
Liverpool are reportedly in "very advanced" talks for RB Leipzig's 19-year-old Ivorian talent Yan Diomande. The rising star has seven goals and four assists this term and is currently at AFCON. Tottenham Hotspur are also interested, but formal negotiations are yet to begin between the clubs.
Potential Anfield Departures
January could also see several players leave Merseyside, with one legend's future dominating headlines.
The saga surrounding Mohamed Salah persists after his fallout with Slot. The Egyptian accused the club of "throwing him under the bus" after being benched, sparking renewed interest from Saudi Arabian clubs. Despite reconciliation talks, fan unrest could push the Champions League winner towards an exit.
Youngster Trey Nyoni, 18, may seek a loan move for regular first-team football after limited appearances this season. Slot has praised his ability but indicated the need for the next step in his development.
Defender Rhys Williams, 24, is another candidate to leave. After making 19 appearances in the 2020/21 season, he has been sent on six loan spells and featured minimally, with a permanent departure now a possibility.
This January window presents a critical balancing act for Arne Slot and Liverpool. Securing top-tier targets like Guehi or Diomande while managing the situation of a club icon like Salah will define their second half of the 2025/26 season and their ambitions for silverware.
