Image Credits: Imago Images
January is an extremely busy period for transfer news and Liverpool Football Club are usually in the headlines when it comes to transfers.
In January 2026, expect to see more headlines around players either coming in or going out of the club.
Realistically, it’s more likely that you’ll see more stories about players leaving than coming in.
Liverpool do need strengthening – especially when it comes to the defence.
But long term target Marc Guehi seems to be leaving making a decision on his future until the summer.
And there are plenty of players still on the Liverpool books that are looking for a way out.
One of those is potentially Harvey Elliott.
Aston Villa seem to be sending very clear signals that they don’t want him at the club anymore.
MLS sides are poised to move for Harvey Elliott and could spring into action if Villa send him back to Anfield.
While there are other players being linked in and out of the move, one player has had his destiny confirmed and officially becomes the first transfer completed by Liverpool in 2026.
League of Ireland Premier Division side Shelbourne FC have officially confirmed the permanent signing of Liverpool defender James Norris.
Norris initially joined Shelbourne on loan in February 2025 and has impressed during his time in Dublin.
The left-back made 45 appearances for Shelbourne across 2025 and was named 1895 Young Player of the Year by his teammates.
Shelbourne have played in the UEFA Conference League this season also, picking up two points and finishing 34th out of 36 places.
James Norris had admitted earlier this season that there was no future for him at Liverpool and it’s now been confirmed.
“Absolutely delighted to make the move permanent,” Norris told the official Shelbourne website.
“I loved my time here on loan and it feels like the right place for me to continue my development.
“I cannot wait to get going again, work under the manager and his staff, and play in front of the supporters at Tolka Park again”.
So the story of James Norris at Liverpool, a club that he’s been at since he was nine years old, is now over.
Shelbourne will be hoping that the 22-year-old can help them reach the European group stages for future competitions and help them be more competitive.
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