The January transfer window is now open and Arne Slot's Liverpool are said to be making moves
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - JANUARY 01: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Arne Slot, Manager of Liverpool, looks on prior to the Premier League match between Liverpool and Leeds United at Anfield on January 01, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Arne Slot could be looking to bolster his squad in January(Image: Liverpool FC, Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
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Liverpool are to make a move in the January transfer window but speculation is mounting that they could be about to act. Arne Slot's team suffered a heartbreaking late setback against Fulham on Sunday, drawing 2-2 in the Premier League.
Cody Gakpo appeared to have secured all three points at Craven Cottage, only for a last-minute wonder goal from Harrison Reed to salvage a point for Marco Silva's side. The draw has left some supporters feeling anxious that the club needs to be proactive this January.
This marks the second consecutive draw for Liverpool, following a goalless stalemate with Leeds United at Anfield on New Year's Day. The Reds' performance against Daniel Farke's team was criticised for their lack of creativity.
Now that the transfer window is open, Liverpool are rumoured to be competing with Manchester United for a highly promising midfielder. The ECHO also examines the uncertain future of Harvey Elliott.
Liverpool to join Carlos Baleba chase
Rumours are intensifying that Liverpool are keen on Brighton's Carlos Baleba. The Cameroon international was reportedly pursued by Man United in the summer, but a deal never came to fruition.
Brighton are believed to be demanding over £100 million for the former Lille youngster, making any potential move a complex undertaking. However, CaughtOffside have reported that the Reds are the latest team to express an interest in securing the midfielder's services.
Carlos Baleba was linked with a summer transfer to Manchester United
Carlos Baleba was linked with a summer transfer to Manchester United
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Brighton are reportedly 'fielding multiple enquiries' for their star player. However, while a January sale seems unlikely, it's anticipated that Baleba will depart at the end of the season.
Liverpool are also said to be interested in strengthening their midfield with Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton also linked to the club.
United have also expressed a strong interest in Wharton. According to Spanish publication AS, Slot's team also face competition from Chelsea, Manchester City and Real Madrid for the player, with the outlet suggesting that any club will need to pay a substantial sum for the defensive midfielder.
Harvey Elliott development
Despite recent rumours linking Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott to Charlotte FC, it appears a move to the United States is now unlikely. Reports from The Athletic indicate that those close to the 22-year-old have dismissed the possibility of a stateside transfer.
Elliott’s current loan spell at Aston Villa has proven difficult. The deal includes a £35m obligation to buy triggered if he reaches 10 appearances, but Elliott has remained stuck on five games since October.
Harvey Elliott
Harvey Elliott is not playing much for Aston Villa(Image: 2025 Aston Villa FC)
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With only two starts under his belt, it is now certain that Villa will not hit the threshold required to finalise the permanent transfer.
Because of FIFA registration rules, Elliott cannot join another European side this season. This left the MLS as a rare alternative due to its differing calendar. However, with Liverpool currently missing Mohamed Salah due to AFCON and a dip in form, a return to Anfield seems like the most logical solution.
To make this happen, both clubs would need to formally terminate the loan agreement, as the original contract lacks a standard recall clause.