Keep, Dump or Extend? 7 Questions Liverpool Must Answer in the January Transfer Window

Liverpool face critical squad decisions as the January 2026 transfer window opens on January 1 for the Premier League, amid a challenging season where they've slipped out of the title race but hold an 85% chance of top-five finish and an outside Champions League shot[3][2]. ESPN analyzes seven key questions: keep, dump, or extend for pivotal players, balancing immediate needs with long-term planning[1][3].

1. Left-Back Crisis: Keep Robertson or Seek Upgrade?

Andy Robertson's experience is vital, but declining pace raises doubts. Liverpool prioritize left-back reinforcements due to vulnerabilities, potentially targeting versatile options amid injury concerns elsewhere[1].

2. Striker Dilemma: Extend Nunez or Dump for New Blood?

Darwin Nunez's inconsistency prompts debate—keep for potential, dump for sales value, or extend? Recent £125m Alexander Isak signing signals firepower investment, but more attacking depth like Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo is eyed[2][4].

3. Midfield Overhaul: Dump Szoboszlai?

Dominik Szoboszlai's form dip questions his role. Liverpool lean toward youth, eyeing targets like Fulham's Kevin for creativity[8].

Defensive Depth: Extend Konaté or Replace?

Ibrahima Konaté's injuries necessitate a long-term successor, possibly Marc Guéhi, who nearly joined in September[3][4]. Projections rank Liverpool's needs moderate, not urgent[3].

Other queries cover midfielders like Mac Allister (extend), wingers (dump fringe players), and goalkeepers (keep Alisson). Budget allows €50m-€100m moves if departures occur, but caution prevails post-summer spending[1].

Strategic Outlook

Liverpool thread "winning now and future," but struggles push youth focus. Window closes February 3 for WSL, but Premier League earlier—key for top-five push[2][6]. Competition for targets like Semenyo and Guéhi looms[4].

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