Ibrahima Konate's performances have not been up to his usual Liverpool standardplaceholder image
Ibrahima Konate's performances have not been up to his usual Liverpool standard | Getty Images
How Liverpool’s starting XI could look after January if recent transfer rumours come true
The Reds have lost six of their last seven league fixtures and are now 11 points adrift of leaders Arsenal. Despite spending a record-breaking £446 million on new signings over the summer, the reigning champions look in desperate need of extra help.
A number of problem areas have been raised by fans, pundits and the media as Liverpool’s dramatic freefall continues. The Reds have their eye on some blockbuster transfer targets, who could help turn their season around if they manage to get the deals over the line in January.
Liverpool sign £88m Ibrahima Konate replacement
We’ve taken a look at the biggest Liverpool transfer rumours in the lead-up to the January window. The defence is in serious need of improvement, with Ibrahima Konate coming under fire for his recent performances that have far from his usual standard.
The long-term injury to Giovanni Leoni also puts pressure on the centre-backs, especially with Champions League progression still a priority. As Liverpool hope to bolster their options in defence, they have been linked with Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Liverpool are ‘preparing an offer’ of at least €100 million (£88m) for the Italian, who is a key figure for I Nerazzurri. The Reds are in need of a quick-fix signing to see them through the season, but also someone who can replace the exit-linked Konate and potential succeed Virgil van Dijk.
Andy Robertson continues to impress having earned his position at left-back again. Until the team can learn to Milos Kerkez more and he settles into his role, the most impactful option is to play Robertson.
Similarly, Conor Bradley has earned praise for his recent performances, while Jeremie Frimpong has faced some criticism. Paul Merson recently said the Dutchman is ‘not a good defender’ and views Bradley as the better fit at right-back.
Liverpool spend more cash on new attacker
Despite the bulk of their summer spending going on new attackers, things just aren’t clicking for Liverpool up front. Mohamed Salah has fallen dramatically short of his usual standard this season and reports of the Reds signing his successor are ramping up.
Antoine Semenyo is the leading target and Bournemouth will reportedly demand upwards of £75 million before considering parting ways with him. The idea of Liverpool signing a replacement for Salah while he is still at the club would’ve been an alien concept even six month ago, but the Reds’ poor attacking displays need addressing immediately.
This also opens the door for Slot’s continued efforts to play Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike together. Isak continues to frustrate with his goal drought but fans remain hopeful he will come good.
Vitinha is another target Liverpool are looking at as they consider a midfield revamp. The Paris Saint-Germain star is wanted by several clubs right now and Mundo Deportivo claims the French giants will demand €130 million (£114m) for his signature.
Vitinha, who is under contract with PSG until 2029, is said to ‘fit the profile’ of midfielder Liverpool have been looking for since Thiago left the club last summer.
Liverpool dream XI after January transfer window, if rumours come true: Alisson; Conor Bradley, Alessandro Bastoni, Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson, Vitinha, Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai, Antoine Semenyo, Hugo Ekitike, Alexander Isak.
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