Liverpool’s trip to Sunderland is all about getting a result, but there could be some hidden transfer implications as well.
You would think transfer talk might settle with the close of the January window, but the discourse around player movement has become a spectacle all year round.
Mo Salah is in talks with Al-Ittihad, while reports are also emerging about Liverpool’s interest in Micky van de Ven for a summer swoop.
Plenty of active links, but also some that need to be explored.
If this game on Wednesday is anything like the reverse fixture, it could start some uncomfortable conversations about Liverpool’s midfield unit.
Do we all agree it’s time for Arne Slot to drop Cody Gakpo vs Sunderland? 🔄
What would your starting line-up be for the game? 🔮
Cody Gakpo pictured in action during Liverpool's Premier League match against Leeds United at Elland Road.
Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images
Liverpool will be watching midfielders on both sides vs Sunderland
There are underperformers littered throughout the Liverpool squad. Two in the middle of the park have come under increased scrutiny after exit rumours.
Curtis Jones was linked with Spurs and Inter Milan during the January window. He stepped up when Liverpool were at their lowest point this season, but has since regressed.
MORE LIVERPOOL STORIES
What should Liverpool do with Curtis Jones? His contract expires in 2027 ❌
Curtis Jones of Liverpool FC during the UEFA Champions League match between Galatasaray v Liverpool at the Rams Park
Credit: Gerrit van Keulen/Soccrates/Getty Images
One of Slot’s most consistent players during the title run, Alexis Mac Allister hasn’t looked the same this season. Rumours of interest from Real Madrid have begun to swirl.
FSG might look to sell one, or both of them, if their form doesn’t pick up.
And a player who would be perfect for Liverpool could accelerate that decision himself with another top display against us.
Noah Sadiki would be perfect for Liverpool
Noah Sadiki came to Sunderland from the Belgian League this summer, and the 20-year-old has been nothing short of phenomenal.
Granit Xhaka has been labelled by many as the signing of the season, slotting into Regis Le Bris’ midfield to great effect, but his partner in the engine room has been just as integral.
He’s an impressive all-action midfielder with a bit of everything to his game, and looks like someone with an extremely high ceiling. His legs would be invaluable in Slot’s midfield, providing respite for Ryan Gravenberch or forming a formidable double-pivot with him.
Noah Sadiki playing for Sunderland and Ryan Gravenberch for Liverpool
Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Chelsea and Man United are already looking at Sadiki, and Liverpool would be foolish not to do so as well.
After a solid performance in the reverse fixture, Wednesday night’s outing could be an opportunity for the youngster to grab the attention of Liverpool’s recruitment staff — though with a talent like this, they will have already done some digging.
Jones and Mac Allister are at risk of Anfield exile, and Sadiki might show Liverpool what they’re missing in their midfield unit.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox