With Contract Uncertainties and Defensive Vulnerabilities Exposed, the Reds Prepare for a Bold Winter Window to Reinforce Key Positions – Fans Buzzing Over Potential Game-Changers
Liverpool FC is gearing up for one of the most aggressive January transfer windows in recent memory, with reports confirming the club is “pushing hard” to secure a new defensive midfielder, a left-sided centre-back, and a right winger before the deadline on February 3. As Arne Slot navigates a season of promise and peril – second in the Premier League but nine points adrift of leaders Arsenal after a 2-1 loss to Manchester United – insiders reveal the Reds view these signings as “non-negotiable” to address glaring gaps exposed by injuries and expiring contracts. “This isn’t tinkering; it’s transformation,” a source close to Anfield told The Athletic. With sporting director Richard Hughes leading the charge, the window could inject over £150 million into the squad, reigniting title hopes and silencing doubters.
The urgency stems from midfield fragility and defensive instability. Without a true No. 6 since Fabinho’s 2023 exit, Liverpool have relied on Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch in a holding role, but neither has convinced Slot fully. Endo, 32, excels in duels but lacks progressive passing, while Gravenberch’s box-to-box energy leaves gaps. Targets include Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, 26, whose £50 million release clause Liverpool nearly triggered in summer 2024 before he opted to stay. “Zubimendi’s the dream – composure, vision, everything we need,” the source said. Alternatives: Fulham’s João Palhinha, 29, for £45 million, or Sporting’s Morten Hjulmand, 25, at £35 million – both offering steel and distribution.
At left-sided centre-back, Virgil van Dijk’s contract expires June 2025, and at 34, questions linger about his longevity. Ibrahima Konaté’s injury proneness (missing 15 games last season) and Jarell Quansah’s inexperience heighten the need. Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi, 24, tops the list after Liverpool’s £70 million summer bid was rejected; he’s valued at £55 million and fits Slot’s ball-playing mold. “Guéhi’s pace and passing would partner Van Dijk perfectly,” per Sky Sports. Backup: Sevilla’s Loïc Badé, 24, for £25 million, or PAOK’s Konstantinos Koulierakis, 21, a £20 million Greek sensation with aerial dominance.
On the right wing, Mohamed Salah’s future hangs by a thread – his deal ends 2025, with Saudi clubs circling at £150 million. Luis Díaz and Federico Chiesa provide cover, but neither matches Salah’s output. Feyenoord’s Anis Hadj-Moussa, 22, emerges as a £25 million target – versatile, direct, and Champions League-proven. “Anis is the Salah heir apparent – pace, dribbling, end product,” a scout said. Rodrygo from Real Madrid is a wildcard at £80 million, though unlikely.
Slot, in his first full season, has overseen a strong start (10 wins in 12) but faltered against direct teams like Newcastle. “We need balance – steel in midfield, solidity left of center, threat right,” he said post-United. Hughes, backed by FSG’s £1 billion war chest, is empowered for January action, unlike the quiet 2024 summer.
Fans are buzzing. #LFCJanuaryRebuild trended with 1.2 million posts, supporters dreaming of Zubimendi-Gu éhi-Hadj Moussa. “This could win us the league,” one tweeted. Risks remain: FFP scrutiny after 115 charges, and Salah’s potential exit. But with Champions League progression secured, January is Liverpool’s chance to strike.
The Reds aren’t rebuilding – they’re reloading. Anfield awaits its reinforcements.
