What It Would Take for Liverpool to Make a Signing in the January Transfer Window

Liverpool's January 2026 transfer activity remains minimal amid a challenging title defense. Despite a record-breaking £446.5m summer spend following their 2024-25 Premier League triumph, Arne Slot's side trails significantly, prompting questions on further reinforcements before the window closes on February 2 at 7pm GMT.[2]

The Reds have made just one incoming signing: 18-year-old Senegalese center-back Mor Talla Ndiaye from Amitie FC for £1m, alongside Owen Beck's loan return from Derby County. Outgoings include James Norris to Shelbourne for an undisclosed fee, resulting in a net spend of £0m.[2][4]

Defensive vulnerabilities are acute. Conor Bradley's major knee injury against Arsenal has left the backline thin, compounded by Giovanni Leoni's season-long ACL absence and the collapsed deadline-day bid for Marc Guéhi last summer. ESPN highlights center-back as the priority, with wing reinforcements needed after Luis Díaz's €75m move to Bayern Munich.[4]

Competition intensifies: Manchester City snatched Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo for £62.5m plus add-ons, a target Liverpool eyed. Juventus is in talks for a potential high-profile exit of Federico Chiesa, which could fund incoming deals.[3][4][5]

Analysts assess squad needs: right-back cover post-Bradley, central defense depth, and wide attacking options. However, with minimal activity so far—only low-cost youth additions—major signings hinge on sales like Chiesa, injury crises, or FSG's willingness to invest mid-season despite summer extravagance. Slot prioritizes fitness stabilization for prospects over loans, signaling caution.[2][3][4]

As deadline nears, Liverpool's window success depends on opportunistic moves amid rivals' spending. Fans await if title hopes spur bolder action.[1][2]

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