Liverpool Change Stance on Signing Centre-Back in January

Liverpool Change Stance on Signing Centre-Back in January

Liverpool FC has shifted its transfer strategy in the January window, prioritizing young centre-backs over immediate senior reinforcements despite defensive vulnerabilities. Under manager Arne Slot, the reigning Premier League champions have confirmed multiple youth signings, focusing on long-term development rather than addressing current issues like conceding a league-high 13 set-piece goals this season[1].

The club secured 18-year-old Senegalese left-footed defender Mor Talla Ndiaye from Amitié FC—owned by ex-Premier League striker Demba Ba—for a reported £1 million ($1.3 million) on a four-and-a-half-year deal. The 6'2" talent will join Rob Page's Under-21 squad, joining a growing pool of promising centre-backs[1][4].

Additionally, Liverpool completed the signing of 19-year-old Noah Adekoya, a Scouse product from Burnley, who announced the move on Instagram. The academy-bound defender bolsters homegrown options[2].

Imminent is the arrival of 17-year-old Austrian Ifeanyi Ndukwe from Austria Vienna for an initial £2.6 million, outbidding Inter Milan. Ndukwe's ball-carrying ability, physicality, and fit for Slot's structured defense—emphasizing advancing centre-backs—make him a coveted prospect. He pairs intriguingly with talents like Giovanni Leoni, signaling planning beyond Virgil van Dijk's tenure[1][3].

This "stockpiling" approach contrasts fan calls for experienced options like Crystal Palace's Marc Guéhi, whose January move seems unlikely amid Arsenal and Manchester City interest. Liverpool eyes a summer bid if his contract nears expiry[1]. After heavy summer spending, January remains quiet on seniors, with unverified links to megadeals like £156m for Jude Bellingham dismissed as speculative[4].

Overall, Liverpool's youth-focused pivot invests in a future defensive core, balancing immediate title defense with sustained success.

(Word count: 298)