Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool could be active again in the winter transfer window despite spending over £400million last summer. The Reds’ struggles this season, combined with Mohamed Salah’s uncertain future, have brought recruitment plans firmly back into focus.
Arne Slot’s side may accelerate plans to sign a centre-back. One example is their continued interest in Marc Guehi, who underwent a medical with the club during the summer.
Slot has insisted there is no longer an issue to resolve with Salah aafter reinstating him to the squad, but the fallout from the Egypt international’s explosive interview remains fresh.
Salah is currently representing Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations and may not return until late in the transfer window should his country progress deep into the tournament.
That scenario could delay any clarity, although Liverpool have so far received no official approach from a Saudi Pro League club, with Middle Eastern focus largely centred on a potential summer move.
Liverpool were prepared to sign Guehi for £35million on Deadline Day before Crystal Palace pulled the plug at the eleventh hour.
The club remain reluctant to overpay for a player who could soon be available on a free transfer, despite significant competition for his signature. Guehi himself was keen on a move to Anfield last summer.
The Guehi situation is also linked to Ibrahima Konate, who is approaching the final months of his contract. While Liverpool remain committed to tying the defender down to a new deal, they are unwilling to break their wage structure.
Andy Robertson is another player nearing the end of his deal, though the 31-year-old has insisted he is relaxed about the situation. The left-back rejected interest from Atletico Madrid last summer.
Elsewhere, former Liverpool striker Mario Balotelli has signed for Al-Ittifaq FC in Dubai, according to Sky Sports Italia. The Italian forward has been a free agent since leaving Genoa last summer.
He has agreed a two-and-a-half-year contract, which can be officially registered on January 12. Balotelli is set to travel to Dubai on Friday to begin the next chapter of his career.
Mario Balotelli joined Liverpool from AC Milan in the summer of 2014, scoring just four goals, including one in the Premier League. He made just 28 appearances for the Reds over two years.
Read more: Federico Chiesa leaning towards Juventus transfer
Met Office issues weather warning ahead of Arsenal vs Liverpool
Fabrizio Romano provides worrying Marc Guehi transfer update
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.