Liverpool Transfer News: Marc Guehi Problem, Charlie Cresswell Alternative, Lionel Messi Claim

Liverpool FC's January 2026 transfer window heats up amid defensive injury concerns and ambitious youth signings, as Arne Slot eyes squad reinforcement without major spending sprees[1][3].

Defensive Reinforcements and Setbacks

The Reds have officially confirmed the signing of promising 17-year-old centre-back Ifeanyi Ndukwe from Austria Vienna, hailed by Fabrizio Romano with a "Here we go." At 6ft 5in, the U17 World Cup standout dominated aerially, beating competition from Inter Milan and Bundesliga clubs. Due to age and post-Brexit rules, he joins the academy in summer 2026[1][2][5].

Another youth defensive coup nears with Talla Ndiaye set to arrive immediately, forming a double centre-back swoop[5]. However, speculation over Club Brugge's Joel Ordonez—linked at £35m-£43m—has been debunked by Romano despite Ecuadorian hype. Liverpool scouts him, but no deal exists[1][4].

At centre-back, needs are glaring after Giovanni Leoni's ACL injury sidelined the summer signing from Parma for the season[3]. This exacerbates the Marc Guehi problem: Crystal Palace's star defender remains a top target, but sky-high £70m+ demands and rival interest from Arsenal complicate pursuits[1]. As an alternative, Charlie Cresswell from Leeds emerges—affordable, homegrown, and defensively solid, fitting Slot's pragmatic approach[1].

Loan Updates and Squad Focus

Liverpool recalled Owen Beck from Derby County loan after a serious hamstring injury requiring surgery, ending his Championship stint prematurely. Meanwhile, James Norris made his Shelbourne loan permanent[1][3].

Attack and Salah Stance

Slot dismissed forward signings, urging current players and fans to "roll up sleeves." He affirmed no desire for Mohamed Salah to leave, planning talks amid contract buzz[3]. A wild Lionel Messi claim surfaces: anonymous sources allege secret Inter Miami talks for a Salah swap, but insiders dismiss it as fantasy amid Messi's MLS commitment[1].

With the window underway, Liverpool balances youth investment and defensive fixes, prioritizing sustainability over splashy buys[1][3].

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