Liverpool manager Arne Slot is overseeing a pivotal January transfer window at Anfield, with significant developments emerging on potential multi-million pound deals and squad decisions ahead of the summer.
Mega-Money Move for Diomande 'Sanctioned'
The most eye-catching speculation surrounds RB Leipzig's Ivorian defender Yan Diomande. The 19-year-old, who only joined the Bundesliga side last summer for €20m, has reportedly attracted serious interest from Liverpool, among other European giants.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, a mega-money transfer for Diomande has been 'sanctioned', but any move will be delayed until the summer window. Leipzig are said to value the highly-rated centre-back at a staggering £86 million.
Diomande himself added fuel to the fire last week, stating that playing for Liverpool would be a 'dream come true'. Tottenham, Manchester United, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain are also credited with interest in the player.
Chiesa Price Tag Set as Juventus Circle
Meanwhile, the future of Italian winger Federico Chiesa appears to be coming to a head. Reports from Italy, via Calciomercato.com, indicate that Liverpool have set a €20 million price tag for the former Juventus man.
The Reds are reportedly insistent on a permanent transfer, while Juventus are pushing for a loan deal with an option or obligation to buy. Chiesa arrived at Anfield in August 2024 for an initial £10m but has struggled for consistent impact, scoring four goals in 34 appearances.
However, Juve's current manager, Luciano Spalletti—who previously coached Chiesa with the Italian national team—recently played down the rumours, claiming he had heard 'nothing concrete' regarding a move.
Slot's Sudden U-turn on Ramsay Exit
In a surprise shift of strategy, Arne Slot has decided against allowing right-back Calvin Ramsay to leave on loan this month. According to the Daily Mail, this U-turn is a direct response to Conor Bradley's season-ending knee injury.
Bradley was carried off during Liverpool's goalless draw at Arsenal last week and has since undergone surgery. With his absence creating a shortage at full-back, Slot now views Ramsay as a necessary squad option for the remainder of the campaign.
The young Scot is yet to make a Premier League appearance this season but will now be retained to provide cover.
Youth Signings Progress
Amid the high-profile speculation, Liverpool have quietly been bolstering their youth ranks. The club completed their first January signing last week, bringing in Senegalese youngster Mor Talla Ndiaye from Amitie FC for the U21s.
Furthermore, the Reds are in talks with Austria Vienna regarding 17-year-old centre-back Ifeanyi Ndukwe, with a view to a summer transfer. The Austria youth international could join in time for pre-season training in July.
As Liverpool prepare to host Burnley at Anfield this Saturday, the off-field machinery continues to whirr, setting the stage for a potentially transformative summer at the club.
