After winning the Premier League and spending upwards of £400m in the transfer market over the summer, very few people would have predicted the drop-off from Liverpool in 2025/26.
Arne Slot’s men have been a shadow of their former selves this campaign, subsequently sitting fourth in the table - with their chances of defending their title all but over.
As a result, the manager has found himself under huge pressure at Anfield, which could lead to a change in the coming months should results continue on the same path.
Slot-1
However, despite the recent heavy spending, the winter window could be crucial for the Dutchman’s tenure, whether that be for incomings or outgoings on Merseyside.
The board have already started identifying potential additions to help Slot in his quest to turn things around, leading to numerous links with multiple top-level talents.
Liverpool want January move for £100m sensation
With the January window now firmly in full flow, Liverpool have already been linked with countless players, with rumours gathering pace over a move to land PSG star Bradley Barcola.
The French winger has been one of the shining lights of the Parisians' success in recent years, but he could now be allowed to depart in the months ahead.
bradley-barcola-psg
The Reds have been just one of the sides interested in a move to land the attacker, leading to a potential £86m transfer for his signature being mooted in recent days.
However, he’s not the only big-money talent currently in their sights, as Brighton and Hove Albion star Carlos Baleba has emerged on their shortlist this week.
According to TEAMtalk, Slot’s side are keen on a move to land the Cameroonian international who is currently representing his homeland at the African Cup of Nations.
The report states they’re not alone in the pursuit of the 22-year-old this winter, with long-term admirers Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur also keen on a possible deal.
Brighton & Hove Albion's Carlos Baleba in action with Manchester City's Mateo Kovacic
TEAMtalk’s article also confirms that any move would be an expensive one for any interested party this window, with Fabian Hurzeler’s men demanding at least £100m to part ways with the midfielder.
Why Baleba would be Mac Allister 2.0 for Liverpool
In recent seasons, Liverpool have spent heavily to improve their midfield department, as seen by the £35m deal to land Argentine star Alexis Mac Allister in the summer of 2023.
Arne Slot and Alexis Mac Allister for Liverpool
The 27-year-old has since made himself a fan-favourite at Anfield, with the star becoming known to pop up in key moments and provide the goods for Slot.
He’s already racked up 122 appearances since his transfer two and a half years ago, even scoring on 15 occasions - with his effort against Fulham undoubtedly the pick of the bunch.
Mac Allister has also contributed with 15 assists during such a period, often having a huge impact within the final third despite his box-to-box midfield role.
The fee paid for his signature is one of the best deals in recent memory, with Liverpool getting a bargain whilst Brighton lost one of their star man for peanuts.
Alexis Mac Allister
However, the Seagulls could now force the Reds into spending a pretty penny with any deal for Baleba, but there’s no denying the quality of player they would be signing in the process.
His stats from the current campaign highlight his quality, with the youngster having all the tools needed to follow in the Argentine’s footsteps and thrive at Anfield.
Baleba, who’s been dubbed “world-class” by journalist Ryan Adsett, has completed 85% of the passes he’s attempted, whilst making 2.5 passes into the final third per 90.
Such numbers showcase his ability to dictate the play when needed, something which has been vital in Slot’s system since his arrival in the summer of 2024.
Carlos Baleba - PL stats (2025/26)
Statistics (per 90)
Games played
Minutes played
Pass accuracy
Passes into final third
Progressive passes
Tackles won
Interceptions made
Clearances made
Aerials won
Stats via FBref
However, out of possession is where the Brighton star has excelled this season, as demonstrated by his tally of 1.8 tackles won and 1.5 interceptions made per 90.
Other numbers, such as 1.8 clearances made per 90 and 61% aerials won, highlight his dominance without the ball, subsequently allowing Mac Allister to operate in a more advanced role.
carlos-baleba-brighton
Baleba, too, has showcased his long-range goalscoring ability, as seen with his 35-yard screamer in the win over West Ham United last campaign.
£100m would be yet another huge statement of intent from the hierarchy, but there’s little denying it would be a move that would improve the options at the manager's disposal tenfold.
If he does make the move and has the same level of impact as Mac Allister, it would be a move worth every penny in their hunt to return to glory in the years ahead.
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[Liverpool prepare £86m bid for "crazy fast" star who could replace Salah](https://www.footballfancast.com/liverpool-prepare-bid-for-bradley-barcola-who-could-replace-salah/ "Liverpool prepare £86m bid for "crazy fast" star who could replace Salah")
The Reds could now turn to a new signing that would delight Hugo Ekitike.