Liverpool have been largely quiet in the January transfer window but the Reds are reportedly targeting defensive reinforcements with Lutsharel Geertruida and Dayot Upamecano linked on deadline day
Liverpool manager Arne Slot
Liverpool manager Arne Slot(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
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Liverpool have endured a quiet January transfer window so far - but there's still time for late drama before the 7pm deadline on Monday. With just hours remaining, Premier League sides are racing against the clock to strengthen their squads for the final stretch of the campaign.
In truth, virtually all of the Reds' activity this month has centred around their youth players. The sole new signing has been 18 year old defender Mor Talla Ndiaye, who has joined the club's academy from Senegalese outfit Amitie FC.
The arrival of the teenager wasn't quite what supporters were hoping for amid a defensive injury crisis - particularly after failing to secure Marc Guehi before his move to Manchester City - but the promising youngster could well turn out to be an astute piece of business down the line.
As for departures, the club have sanctioned several loan moves, with the exception of James Norris who completed a permanent switch to Shelbourne Rovers. Luke Chambers has joined Charlton Athletic on loan until the end of the season, whilst Lewis Koumas moved to Hull City after his earlier loan spell at Birmingham City this term was terminated early.
Liverpool have recalled two players, with James Balagizi returning from Forest Green Rovers following a bout of injuries, and Owen Beck also making his way back to Anfield after an injury-ridden spell at Derby County where he didn't make a single appearance.
With Conor Bradley, Jeremie Frimpong and Giovanni Leoni all out of action, defensive reinforcements are reportedly high on Liverpool's agenda as they look to bolster their squad swiftly.
According to The Athletic, the Reds held discussions about a loan deal for defender Lutsharel Geertruida. Having previously played under Arne Slot at Feyenoord, the Dutch player's versatility across the backline and midfield would offer Liverpool much-needed cover in several areas.
However, as Geertruida is currently contracted to RB Leipzig, the Bundesliga club would need to terminate the loan agreement with Sunderland, while Liverpool would need to negotiate terms with both Leipzig and Sunderland.
Arne Slot and Lutsharel Geertruida during their time at Feyenoord
Arne Slot and Lutsharel Geertruida during their time at Feyenoord(Image: ANP via Getty Images)
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Should Geertruida depart, the newly-promoted side would require both a replacement and compensation. Given Liverpool's tendency to avoid permanent deals during an injury crisis, particularly in January, a temporary move for a player familiar with Slot's tactics could be a favourable solution.
However, hopes of a deal being finalised are fading. Sunderland are at present in no position to allow Geertruida to be released
A deal that could be agreed, however, is the signing of Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes - although the young defender will not move to Anfield until the summer. The Reds have negotiated a pre-agreement worth an initial £55million plus £5m in add-ons for the 20-year-old.
It remains to be seen whether Liverpool's hefty £450million outlay last summer has hamstrung them in the winter window or the difficulty of finding value for money in the month-long window has proven too difficult for the club.
Liverpool have no intention of allowing any senior players to depart before the window closes despite recent reports in Italy claiming Inter were willing to offer a loan move with a view to a £35million transfer for Curtis Jones, but the same can't be said for some of the club's academy talents. Kieran Morrison and Wellity Lucky - who both made their senior debuts in the EFL Cup earlier this season - could be on the move as they look to make the step up to regular first team football.
Curtis Jones has been linked with a move to Inter Milan
Curtis Jones has been linked with a move to Inter Milan(Image: Shaun Brooks - CameraSport via Getty Images)
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Despite Joe Gomez's inability to stay consistently fit, he's long been a valuable member of Liverpool's first team squad. Newcastle came close to signing him in 2024 as part of a deal that would have seen Anthony Gordon return to Merseyside, although Liverpool's reluctance to let senior players depart this month means he should at the very least see out the remainder of the season at Anfield.
No matter what transpires, the mayhem and drama of Deadline Day is likely to impact Anfield just as it will the rest of the Premier League.
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