Liverpool supporters anticipating a flurry of January transfer activity to address a mounting injury crisis are likely to be disappointed, with the club poised for a quiet end to the window. Despite a lengthy absentee list, the reigning Premier League champions' primary business appears to be managing potential departures and internal solutions.
Ibrahima Konate's Anfield Future in Major Doubt
The spectre of a major contract saga has returned to Anfield, this time surrounding defender Ibrahima Konate. The French international's current deal is set to expire in the summer of 2026, meaning he is now eligible to discuss a pre-contract agreement with overseas clubs.
Reports from The Athletic indicate that negotiations between the 26-year-old centre-back and the club have stalled, despite Liverpool having tabled three separate proposals. With no breakthrough in sight, Konate is increasingly likely to depart on a free transfer after five years on Merseyside.
European giants Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have been consistently linked with the powerful defender, who joined from RB Leipzig in 2021. The situation has prompted the Reds to identify centre-back recruitment as a priority for the summer, effectively ruling out a January move for long-admired target Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace.
Conor Bradley Blow and Liverpool's Defensive Response
Liverpool's defensive resources were stretched further last week when Conor Bradley suffered a severe knee injury during the goalless draw at Arsenal. The Northern Ireland captain, 22, has been ruled out for the remainder of the season with damage to bone and ligaments.
Bradley's setback compounds existing issues, with young defender Giovanni Leoni also sidelined long-term with an ACL injury. However, the club's hierarchy will not sanction a permanent signing this month specifically to cover Bradley's absence.
According to club sources, there is confidence that the full-back will be ready to return for the start of pre-season training this summer. While a permanent January arrival has been ruled out, the door remains ajar for a potential short-term loan signing to provide cover during the run-in.
Injury List Grows Amidst Unbeaten Run
Manager Arne Slot continues to navigate a significant injury crisis. Key striker Alexander Isak remains out with a leg fracture, and Mohamed Salah is still on Africa Cup of Nations duty with Egypt, who face Senegal in the semi-finals on Wednesday.
The positive news is that youngster Rio Ngumoha, who was forced off against Barnsley, is believed to have only suffered cramp. Despite these numerous absences, Liverpool's squad depth has been tested and proven, maintaining an impressive 11-match unbeaten streak across all competitions.
With just a fortnight remaining in the transfer window, the focus at the AXA Training Centre appears to be on squad management and planning for the summer, rather than any last-minute major acquisitions.
