Liverpool have just three weeks left to conclude any January transfer business, with the deadline set for February 2, as speculation continues to link the club with several defensive reinforcements.
Injury Crisis Fuels Defensive Search
The need for new signings, particularly in defence, has been heightened by a series of injury setbacks. Summer signing Giovanni Leoni suffered a season-ending knee injury on his debut back in September. The situation worsened this weekend with the confirmation that Conor Bradley will also miss the rest of the campaign due to a knee injury sustained in the draw with Arsenal.
Despite these blows, Liverpool have already made one addition this month, confirming the arrival of 18-year-old Mor Talla Ndiaye, who is expected to join the club's Under-21 setup.
Ordonez Move Pushed to Summer
A key update has emerged regarding one of Liverpool's reported targets, Joel Ordonez. According to reports, the Reds are planning to wait until the summer transfer window to make a move for the Club Brugge defender, and will not submit an offer during January.
This strategic delay suggests Liverpool are planning their recruitment drive with a longer-term view, despite the immediate defensive shortages.
Ramon Monitored Amidst Premier League Interest
Liverpool are also reportedly keeping tabs on Serie A defender Jacobo Ramon. The Como centre-back, who only joined the Italian club from Real Madrid last summer, has attracted attention from a host of Premier League sides.
Alongside Liverpool, Chelsea, Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, Crystal Palace, and Brighton are all said to be interested. It remains unclear whether any move for Ramon would be pursued this month or in the summer.
The ongoing links to Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi also persist, with the England international having been a long-term target for the Anfield club since last summer.
On-Field Focus Amidst Speculation
Manager Arne Slot must balance this transfer speculation with on-pitch matters. His side currently sit fourth in the Premier League but switch focus to the FA Cup this week, hosting Barnsley at Anfield in the third round on Monday night.
With the January window open until 11pm on February 2, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether Liverpool act to address their defensive issues immediately or hold their fire for a summer overhaul.
