With just ten days until the January transfer window opens, Liverpool are preparing to ramp up their recruitment efforts. A crippling injury crisis is forcing the club's hierarchy to reassess their mid-season priorities.
Anfield's treatment room overflowing
The situation is turning critical for the Reds. Alexander Isak, who suffered a broken leg against Tottenham, joins Giovanni Leoni on the long-term injury list. The Swedish striker will be sidelined for several months — a devastating blow for a title-chasing side.
And that's not all. Cody Gakpo, Joe Gomez, Conor Bradley and Wataru Endo are also currently out. Arne Slot's squad has been dramatically thinned ahead of the most demanding period of the season.
Three priority positions identified
According to Sky Sports, Liverpool could accelerate their plans to sign:
- A centre-back
- A winger
- A central midfielder
Names are already circulating within Anfield's corridors. Marc Guehi, Crystal Palace's defensive rock, remains a prime target. A deal was close to being agreed in September for £35 million. That file could be reopened.
On the attacking front, Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo is attracting attention. His £65 million release clause can only be triggered during the first two weeks of January. Liverpool are watching closely.
The midfield puzzle
The surprise comes from the engine room. Despite the obvious need for reinforcements — particularly with Endo unavailable until mid-January — no concrete move appears imminent.
Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace) and Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest) are on the club's radar. But both deals seem more likely for next summer.
Remember, Martin Zubimendi was the top priority in 2024. The failure to land the Basque midfielder, who eventually joined Arsenal for £51 million in July, forced Slot to redeploy Ryan Gravenberch as his No. 6.
Slot urges caution on spending
Asked about potential defensive reinforcements last week, the Dutch boss tempered expectations:
"The outside world wants to believe we have unlimited money, but that is not true. You insiders know what we have brought in to spend. That is the way we work over here."
A clear message: Liverpool won't be splashing the cash. The club must balance sporting ambitions with financial realities. But with injuries piling up, the usual caution may have to give way to urgency.
A make-or-break January
The coming weeks will prove decisive for Liverpool's Premier League ambitions. Between managing their injury list and seizing market opportunities, Arne Slot and the board will need to show agility to keep their title charge on track.
One thing is certain: this January window has never been more crucial for the Reds.
