Liverpool Latest: Arne Slot Responds to Injury Woes as £87m Transfer Links Intensify

Arne Slot has addressed Liverpool's mounting injury crisis, delivering optimistic updates on key players while transfer rumors swirl amid a challenging season.

Promising Update on Record Signing Alexander Isak

Liverpool's £125 million summer 2025 signing Alexander Isak from Newcastle is nearing a return after suffering fibula and ankle fractures in a December 20 tackle by Tottenham's Micky van de Ven. The 26-year-old Swedish striker, who arrived without preseason and scored three goals in 16 appearances, underwent surgery and has been sidelined for two months. Slot revealed Isak has begun light training, running on the pitch in trainers for the first time this week. "If things go as planned, he'll be back with the group around late March or early April," Slot said, cautioning it's not yet match-ready. He emphasized a cautious reintegration to avoid risks, noting Isak's progress toward his Newcastle form despite fitness setbacks.[1][2]

New Signing Jérémy Jacquet Joins Injury List

Slot lamented Liverpool's "bad luck," extending even to incoming £60 million centre-back Jérémy Jacquet from Rennes, who suffered a shoulder injury playing for his current club before his summer move. "Even if we sign a player and he's not even playing for us, he gets injured," Slot remarked. The Reds now have only three senior centre-backs available, with both starting right-backs out long-term. Slot questioned if late conceded goals stem from misfortune or team issues, calling this his toughest campaign. Missing Champions League football would deem the season "unacceptable" and hinder transfers.[3]

Transfer Rumors Heat Up

Defensive woes have intensified links, including a "serious enquiry" for Leeds' Jayden Bogle in January after injuries to Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley. A deal for Lutsharel Geertruida nearly materialized but fell through, leaving depth thin. With Slot under scrutiny if Champions League hopes fade, reinforcements are crucial.[4]

Liverpool must navigate injuries and bolster defense to salvage the season under Slot's leadership.