Liverpool spent big in the summer transfer window, but their signings have not paid off. They have arguably become worse despite spending over £400 million over the summer.
Arne Slot’s side were defeated 3-0 by Manchester City yesterday, which left them eighth in the Premier League. The defending champions are now eight points behind the leaders Arsenal after 11 games.
It has not been a complete disaster this season, as Liverpool defeated Real Madrid in the Champions League last week. However, with key signings underperforming, gaps in Slot’s roster are showing.
Alexander Isak’s lack of a pre-season after going on strike at Newcastle United has led to a slow start to the season. He is yet to score a Premier League goal this campaign. Florian Wirtz has struggled to adapt to English soccer after starring in the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen.
Milos Kerkez has not been able to replicate his form in a Bournemouth shirt in Liverpool colors. Whilst Jeremie Frimpong has struggled with injuries and has not been able to fill the boots left by Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Liverpool’s transfer business looked impressive, but they failed to strengthen in a key position: central defense. They signed Giovanni Leoni from Parma, but the Italian is only 18 and is out with a cruciate ligament tear.
Who do Liverpool need to sign in the January transfer window?
The Reds came close to signing Marc Guéhi on transfer deadline day. However, the move collapsed at the last minute as Crystal Palace could not find a replacement. Guéhi’s contract with Palace expires at the end of the season, so they now risk losing him on a free transfer.
This season and especially during the defeat to City, Ibrahima Konate has not been in form. The club captain, Virgil van Dijk, is also having a mixed campaign. The obvious transfer Liverpool needs to make in January is signing Guéhi.
This will depend on whether Palace can find a replacement for their star defender. Guehi is also in demand from other top Premier League and European clubs. This includes his former team, Chelsea. Reportedly, Real Madrid and Barcelona also have their eyes on Guéhi.
Guéhi may want to see this season out with Palace, so he can ensure regular game time ahead of the World Cup. As his deal with Palace is also expiring in the summer of 2026, the in-demand center-back will have time to assess his options.