Liverpool Urged to Make Two January Signings to Spark a Revival

Liverpool FC, under manager Arne Slot, faced a challenging 2026 January transfer window amid calls for reinforcements to revive their Premier League campaign. Despite a net spend of £63.6 million, the Reds focused primarily on youth acquisitions rather than immediate first-team impact players, prompting debate over their strategy[1][2].

Confirmed Incoming Transfers

Liverpool bolstered their defense with several center-back signings. Jeremy Jacquet joined from Rennes for £60m (summer 2026 arrival), while Ifeanyi Ndukwe arrived from Austria Vienna for £2.6m (also summer). Mor Talla Ndiaye, an 18-year-old Senegalese left-footed defender who impressed at the Under-17 World Cup, signed from Amitie FC for £1m. Noah Adekoya came from Burnley (undisclosed fee). Loan returns included left-back Owen Beck from Derby County and goalkeeper Harvey Davies from Crawley Town[1][2][3][5].

Outgoing Deals and Loans

Exits were minimal, with no significant income. Left-back James Norris made a permanent move to Shelbourne (undisclosed), Luke Chambers loaned to Charlton Athletic, Calum Scanlon to Cardiff City, and Lewis Koumas to Hull City. Other returns like James McConnell from Ajax added squad depth[1][2][5].

Revival Calls and Context

Former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler urged Slot to target two key January signings—a proven center-back and dynamic midfielder—to address defensive vulnerabilities exposed by injuries, including to summer signing Giovanni Leoni. Analysts noted Liverpool's window prioritized long-term youth development over quick fixes, with rumors linking Adam Wharton and others, but no major deals materialized[1][3][4]. The window closed on February 2, 2026, leaving Slot to rely on existing talent amid a push for Champions League spots[1][6]. Critics argue this conservative approach risks stalling momentum, while supporters praise Richard Hughes' shrewd youth investments.

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