Liverpool's Transfer Speculation Continues Despite Window Closure
Despite the January transfer window being firmly shut, Liverpool remain at the centre of persistent transfer rumours, with Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven repeatedly linked with a move to Anfield. This speculation comes at a time when the Reds are navigating defensive shortages and growing concerns over the form of star forward Mohamed Salah.
Defensive Dilemmas Fuel Van de Ven Links
Liverpool's defensive situation remains precarious despite their recent £55 million agreement to sign Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet. The 20-year-old Frenchman will not officially join the club until the season concludes, leaving manager Arne Slot with limited options at the back.
The Reds are currently dealing with injuries to key defenders Conor Bradley, Jeremie Frimpong, and Joe Gomez. This shortage has intensified scrutiny of the squad's defensive depth, particularly regarding Ibrahima Konate's contract situation and the long-term fitness of teenage prospect Giovanni Leoni, who is recovering from ACL surgery.
Former Netherlands international Eljero Elia has publicly endorsed Van de Ven's potential move to Liverpool, suggesting the Tottenham defender possesses the qualities to succeed at a higher level. "He's strong and has good posture. He can score, he can dribble, and he can defend," Elia commented. "If he continues like this, I think after the World Cup, he can make a good step to the bigger clubs... like Real Madrid and Liverpool."
Salah's Form Sparks Growing Concern
While Liverpool celebrated a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Newcastle United last Saturday – ending a five-match winless streak in the Premier League – concerns about Mohamed Salah's form continue to overshadow the positive result.
The Egyptian forward has managed just six goals and six assists in 24 appearances across all competitions this season, a significant drop from his title-winning contributions last campaign. Although he provided an assist for Florian Wirtz against Newcastle, his overall performance raised alarm bells among former players and pundits.
Ex-Liverpool defender Steve Nicol expressed particular concern about Salah's apparent decline in pace and confidence. "How can you go from there to there just so quickly?" Nicol questioned on ESPN FC. "When he used to give the ball away, it didn't affect his confidence because he knew he could still pick the top corners out... But now, there is nothing worse for a footballer when you realise you're losing things."
Nicol highlighted a specific incident where 35-year-old Kieran Trippier comfortably caught Salah during a counterattack, suggesting the forward's awareness of his physical decline is affecting his decision-making in crucial moments.
Looking Ahead to Manchester City Clash
As Liverpool prepare for a crucial home fixture against Manchester City this Sunday, these underlying issues present significant challenges for Slot's side. The defensive absences will test the squad's resilience against one of the Premier League's most potent attacks, while Salah's form remains a key factor in Liverpool's offensive capabilities.
The persistent Van de Ven rumours, though currently speculative given the closed transfer window, reflect ongoing concerns about Liverpool's defensive stability beyond the current season. With the summer transfer window approaching, these discussions are likely to intensify as the club evaluates long-term reinforcements.
Meanwhile, Salah's struggles represent a more immediate concern, with the forward needing to rediscover his confidence and clinical edge if Liverpool are to maintain their push for Champions League qualification and domestic success.
