Need to know
Liverpool's Premier League title defence has not gone to plan so far, but there is still time left for them to bolster their top-flight position with a January addition
Arne Slot, head coach of Liverpool, prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between Liverpool FC and Qarabag FK
Liverpool still have time to make some moves on transfer deadline day(Image: Getty)
Everything you need to know about Liverpool's transfer budget as deadline day arrives
Liverpool have the financial capacity to spend well over £100million as the transfer deadline looms. That is according to football finance expert Kieran Maguire, who claims the club's disciplined financial management has provided a platform for late-window investment.
Owner John W. Henry and Fenway Sports Group continue to operate a self-sustaining business model that prioritises organic growth over external debt. This strategy has left the club with substantial "headroom" under Profit and Sustainability Rules, which would allow for moves in the closing hours if they wished.
Unlike many Premier League rivals who rely on structured credit for transfers, Liverpool maintain exceptionally high levels of cash liquidity. This financial readiness ensures the club can complete immediate, high-value deals without the need for complex payment delays.
The club's wage-to-revenue ratio is also among the healthiest in elite football, providing space to accommodate new arrivals. This efficiency allows the recruitment team to offer competitive salaries to top-tier targets while remaining within a sustainable structure.
All of these positives are reasons why the club could splash out on deadline day if they wanted and the financial incentives of the expanded Champions League format could be another major catalyst for potential activity. Internal projections suggest that success in the new "Swiss model" is vital for maintaining the club's status as a global financial powerhouse.
The Reds have a battle on their hands for a top-four place and signing a new star could aid that plight. The financial rewards of the Champions League are incredible, as participating in the league phase alone guarantees a fixed fee of approximately £16.1m, with additional performance bonuses of £1.8m per victory.
When factoring in the "value pillar" which distributes over £740m based on television markets and historical coefficients, plus substantial matchday income, a successful campaign can generate upwards of £150m.
However, historically speaking the club have avoided "panic buying" at the deadline, preferring to wait for targets who represent a perfect long-term fit. This disciplined approach ensures that any expenditure in the final hours is backed by extensive data and rigorous scouting.