Liverpool’s Struggles and January Transfer Plans

Liverpool experienced a difficult outing earlier this month, succumbing to a 3-0 defeat against Manchester City, with goals from Erling Haaland, Nico Gonzalez, and Jeremy Doku. This loss highlights a concerning trend for the Reds, who have now dropped more league matches this season than in the entirety of the last, putting their title defense at risk.

In an effort to strengthen their squad, Liverpool made significant summer signings, including Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, and Giovanni Leoni. The club successfully secured contract extensions for key players Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk. However, they faced a setback when Trent Alexander-Arnold opted to leave his boyhood club for Real Madrid.

Despite these investments, Liverpool is struggling in the league, currently sitting in eighth place, tied on points with rivals Manchester United, and having lost five of their last six matches. Manager Slot aims to turn the tide when they welcome Nottingham Forest to Merseyside this Saturday.

While Liverpool was initially hesitant to make significant purchases in the January transfer window following a busy summer, the club is preparing to support Slot in the upcoming market to reignite their title ambitions and counter Arsenal’s pursuit of trophies. According to reports from DaveOCKOP, Liverpool is monitoring two Premier League stars to help close the eight-point gap to the Gunners.

Historically, Liverpool has made impactful winter signings, adding players like Van Dijk, Luis Diaz, and Cody Gakpo in previous January windows. There is speculation that another winger may be targeted in January.

DaveOCKOP has reported that Liverpool will engage in preliminary talks with Bournemouth this weekend regarding the potential signing of Antoine Semenyo. Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, who was instrumental in bringing Semenyo to Bournemouth from Bristol City for £10.5 million in 2023, is said to be a strong admirer of the 25-year-old. Should Liverpool formalize their interest, Bournemouth is expected to demand around £75 million for the Ghana international.

Semenyo has made a significant impact at Bournemouth this season, netting six goals and providing three assists, although he has not contributed directly to a goal in his last four league appearances. He was linked with a move away from Bournemouth in the summer but ultimately signed a five-year deal with the club.

Liverpool is not alone in their interest in Semenyo; Premier League rivals Manchester City, Tottenham, and Manchester United are also reportedly monitoring the winger. Additionally, Liverpool has its sights set on other top-flight players for potential January acquisitions.

In another development, DaveOCKOP revealed that Liverpool has initiated talks regarding a possible future transfer for Crystal Palace and England star Adam Wharton, with an eye towards 2026. Wharton’s profile has surged over the past few seasons, contributing to Crystal Palace’s unprecedented successes, including FA Cup and Community Shield victories.

Since joining Crystal Palace from Blackburn Rovers in January 2024, Wharton has emerged as a crucial player, garnering interest from Manchester United, as well as awareness from Manchester City and Real Madrid regarding his performances. Wharton recently made his second senior start for the England national team in a match against Albania.

Liverpool is set to return to Anfield this Saturday to face Nottingham Forest, hoping to gain some momentum amidst a favorable run of fixtures. Following their match with Nottingham, they will compete against PSV in the Champions League before concluding the month with a trip to West Ham. December will see Slot’s side face Sunderland at home, followed by consecutive away matches against Leeds and Inter in the Premier League and Champions League, respectively.