Liverpool's Deadline Day Strategy: Defensive Targets Emerge Amid Quiet Window
Liverpool have experienced a notably subdued January transfer window thus far, yet the potential for last-minute drama remains as the 7pm deadline on Monday approaches. Premier League clubs are engaged in a frantic race against time to bolster their squads for the crucial final phase of the season.
Youth Focus and Loan Movements Define Window
In reality, the majority of Liverpool's activity this month has revolved around their youth setup. The only fresh acquisition has been 18-year-old defender Mor Talla Ndiaye, who has joined the club's academy from Senegalese side Amitie FC.
While the arrival of the teenage prospect may not have been what supporters anticipated during a defensive injury crisis—especially following the unsuccessful pursuit of Marc Guehi before his move to Manchester City—the promising youngster could ultimately prove to be shrewd long-term business.
Regarding departures, the club has authorised several loan moves, with the exception of James Norris who completed a permanent transfer to Shelbourne Rovers. Luke Chambers has joined Charlton Athletic on loan until the season concludes, while Lewis Koumas moved to Hull City after his earlier loan spell at Birmingham City was terminated prematurely.
Defensive Reinforcements Become Priority
Liverpool have recalled two players, with James Balagizi returning from Forest Green Rovers following injury issues, and Owen Beck also making his way back to Anfield after an injury-plagued stint at Derby County where he failed to make a single appearance.
With Conor Bradley, Jeremie Frimpong, and Giovanni Leoni all sidelined, defensive reinforcements are reportedly high on Liverpool's agenda as they seek to strengthen their squad rapidly.
Potential Targets and Complex Negotiations
According to reports from The Athletic, the Reds held discussions about a loan deal for defender Lutsharel Geertruida. Having previously played under manager Arne Slot at Feyenoord, the Dutch player's versatility across defence and midfield would provide Liverpool with much-needed cover in multiple positions.
However, as Geertruida is currently contracted to RB Leipzig, the Bundesliga club would need to terminate his loan agreement with Sunderland, while Liverpool would need to negotiate terms with both Leipzig and the Championship side.
Should Geertruida depart, the newly-promoted Sunderland would require both a replacement and compensation. Given Liverpool's historical tendency to avoid permanent deals during injury crises, particularly in January, a temporary move for a player familiar with Slot's tactical approach could represent an advantageous solution.
Nevertheless, hopes of finalising this deal appear to be diminishing, with Sunderland currently unwilling to release the player.
Summer Agreement and Financial Considerations
A deal that could be confirmed, however, is the signing of Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes—although the young defender will not arrive at Anfield until the summer. The Reds have negotiated a pre-agreement worth an initial £55 million plus £5 million in add-ons for the 20-year-old.
It remains uncertain whether Liverpool's substantial £450 million expenditure last summer has constrained their winter window activity, or if the challenge of finding value for money during the month-long window has proven too difficult for the club.
Senior Players Staying Put Amid Academy Movement
Liverpool have no intention of allowing any senior players to depart before the window closes, despite recent reports from Italy suggesting Inter Milan were prepared to offer a loan move with a view to a £35 million transfer for Curtis Jones.
The same cannot be said for some of the club's academy talents. Kieran Morrison and Wellity Lucky—both of whom made their senior debuts in the EFL Cup earlier this season—could be on the move as they seek regular first-team football opportunities.
Gomez's Situation and Deadline Day Anticipation
Despite Joe Gomez's ongoing fitness challenges, he has long been a valuable member of Liverpool's first-team squad. Newcastle United came close to signing him in 2024 as part of a deal that would have seen Anthony Gordon return to Merseyside, although Liverpool's reluctance to let senior players depart this month means he should at minimum complete the season at Anfield.
Regardless of what transpires in the final hours, the characteristic chaos and drama of Deadline Day is likely to impact Anfield just as it will affect the rest of the Premier League, with defensive reinforcements remaining a clear priority for the Reds as they prepare for the season's decisive phase.
