Liverpool Transfer News and Rumours: Race Won for £2.5m Signing, Player Sale Expected and More

Liverpool FC have secured their first signing of the 2026 January transfer window, beating competition for a promising young defender in a deal worth around £2.5 million, amid a challenging season for Arne Slot's squad.[1][2][3]

The Reds, who clinched the Premier League title in 2024-25 after a record £446.5 million summer spend, are struggling in fourth place, trailing leaders Arsenal by 12 points ahead of gameweek 20.[1][2] Injuries, including Conor Bradley's major knee issue and Giovanni Leoni's ACL tear, have left the defense vulnerable.[1][2]

Confirmed Deals: Race Won for Ndiaye

• Mor Talla Ndiaye, an 18-year-old Senegalese center-back from Amitie FC, joins for approximately £1-2.5 million. Fabrizio Romano confirmed a similar deal for the U17 World Cup standout, with the player set to bolster the Under-21s.[1][2][3][5]
• Owen Beck returns from Derby County loan for rehab after injury.[2][3][5]
• James Norris departs permanently to Shelbourne (undisclosed fee), signaling a player sale as expected.[2][3][5]

Net spend remains near zero at £1 million outlay.[2]

Rumours and Targets

Strengthening the backline is priority: Interest in Tottenham's Micky van de Ven, Brighton's Carlos Baleba, Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi (previous deal collapsed), and Brentford's Nathan Collins persists amid Ibrahima Konate uncertainty and Virgil van Dijk's contract situation (ends 2026/27).[1][2][3][7]

• Potential outs: Mohamed Salah linked to Saudi clubs and Turkey; Konate to Inter, Bayern, Real Madrid.[2]
• Left-back concerns with Andy Robertson in contract talks and Milos Kerkez competing.[6]

Hugo Ekitike shines with 11 goals post-£69m move, but Slot eyes reinforcements for a faltering title defense.[1] Window closes February 2; more moves anticipated.[5]

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