Forget Auld Lang Syne and Big Ben’s chimes—nothing ushers in the New Year quite like the opening of the transfer window.
With January now here, rumors and speculation are already swirling. Following Liverpool’s excellent start under new manager Arne Slot, many fans are eager for the club to strengthen their squad further from a position of advantage.
Liverpool remains open to potential signings, particularly given their strong track record in making smart moves during the mid-season window.
However, the focus isn’t solely on arrivals; the transfer window also provides opportunities for departures. Here’s a look at potential deals in the works.
Deals That Won’t Happen
It’s clear that despite being out of contract at the end of the season, Liverpool has no intention of letting Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, or Trent Alexander-Arnold leave in January.
The Reds have already turned down an approach from Real Madrid for Alexander-Arnold. Meanwhile, the critical roles Salah and Van Dijk play in Liverpool’s pursuit of success on four fronts under Slot make their exits this month inconceivable.
Liverpool is hopeful of securing new contracts for Salah and Van Dijk. However, re-signing Alexander-Arnold may prove more challenging due to strong interest from Real Madrid, a key player in the European Super League discussions.
Potential Moves
With a month until the transfer window closes, there’s plenty of time for activity, though as usual, most deals will likely occur near deadline day.
Given Liverpool’s current squad depth, it’s unlikely fringe players like Wataru Endo will be allowed to leave. However, reports from Italy continue to link Federico Chiesa with a return to Serie A.
Chiesa has struggled with fitness since his summer arrival from Juventus, making just four appearances for Liverpool.
Another player facing uncertainty is Tyler Morton. Limited to three League Cup appearances this season and not featuring on the bench in recent Premier League games, the 22-year-old’s future could depend on Liverpool’s squad needs as January progresses.
Loan Departures
Tyler Morton could be one of several players leaving on loan this month, depending on first-team needs and potential injuries.
Teenage striker Jayden Danns came close to a summer loan move before an injury halted the plan, while midfielder James McConnell—who has also missed much of the season due to fitness issues—might benefit from a temporary spell elsewhere.
Among the Academy players, Harvey Davies, James Norris, Dominic Corness, Tom Hill, and James Balagizi are strong candidates for loan moves.
Liverpool, having sent 12 players on loan in the first half of the season, has shown a willingness to recall players if their development isn’t progressing as expected due to limited game time.
The club is currently assessing situations like Kaide Gordon, who hasn’t started for Norwich City in two months, and Calvin Ramsay, who is struggling for minutes at Wigan Athletic.
