π Liverpoolβs January 2026 Transfer Target Watchlist
As Liverpool gear up for the January 2026 window, several potential signings are being floated around β each reflecting a different strategic need for the squad. Hereβs a breakdown of the top players linked with Anfield, what they bring, and the dilemmas Liverpool might face.
1. Marc Guehi β Defender Par Excellence
- Why Liverpool Want Him: According to several reports, Guehi remains on Liverpoolβs radar as a top defensive priority. Heβs strong, composed, and comfortable playing in a variety of systems β exactly the kind of centre-back Slot could trust to stabilize the backline. (Yahoo Sports)
- The Big Question: While some expect Liverpool to swoop in January, other sources (including Fabrizio Romano) claim the club may prefer to wait and sign him on a free deal in the summer β making this a long-term project rather than a short-term fix. (TEAMtalk)
- Squad Impact: If he arrives, Guehi could become a key figure in defense, helping cover for aging or insecure contracts, and offering leadership beyond his years.
2. Nico Schlotterbeck β Tactical and Robust Option
- Why Liverpool Might Go for Him: Schlotterbeck is another centre-back being monitored. His tactical intelligence, physical presence, and relatively young age make him a tempting option for a club that needs defenders who can handle the Premier Leagueβs intensity. (anfieldindex.com)
- Considerations: Heβs not the only option, and his arrival could depend on how Liverpool value cost vs. long-term upside.
3. Maxence Lacroix β The βRolls Royceβ Defender
- Why Heβs on the List: TeamTalk reports that Lacroix (currently at Crystal Palace) is seen by Liverpool scouts as a mature, dependable centre-back β a βRolls Royceβ in terms of style and stability. (TEAMtalk)
- Fit for Liverpool: His height, experience, and ability to play in a high-pressing system make him a realistic option, especially if Anfield wants someone who can contribute immediately.
4. Antoine Semenyo β Forward/ Winger Upgrade
- Why Liverpool Are Interested: Semenyo, of Bournemouth, has been linked with a January move by multiple outlets. Reports suggest Liverpool view him as a potential long-term successor or supplement to their current wide options. (Goal)
- Risk vs Reward: On one hand, Semenyoβs pace and goal threat offer a fresh attacking dimension. On the other, Liverpool could face stiff competition, and thereβs always the question of whether heβs a stop-gap or a true long-term addition.
5. Aurelien TchouamΓ©ni β Midfield Dynamism
- Why Heβs a Target: Some reports, like from Football365, suggest that Liverpool are considering a move for TchouamΓ©ni in January. He offers defensive solidity, physicality, and top-level experience in midfield. (Football365)
- Why It Matters: If Slot wants to improve his control in midfield β especially in big games β someone like TchouamΓ©ni could help anchor the team and drive forward possession.
6. Patrick Dorgu β A Future Left-Back Option
- Whatβs the Buzz: According to reports, Liverpool have looked into Lecceβs Patrick Dorgu (19), as a young left-back target. (LiverpoolWorld)
- Future vs Now: He may not be a January starter, but scouting him now would make sense for squad planning. Dorgu offers potential for future rotation or even a long-term replacement.
β οΈ The Bigger Picture: Why January is Tricky for Liverpool
- Balancing Act: Liverpool need reinforcements, but theyβre also chasing value. Some targets are short-term fixes; others are long-term bets.
- Contract Situations: Players like Guehi may be more attractive in summer when their contract runs out β but waiting risks losing momentum.
- Squad Philosophy: Under Arne Slot, Liverpool seem to be blending youth with experience β and these targets reflect that mix.
β Bottom Line
Liverpoolβs January 2026 strategy looks like a mix of bolstering defense (with Guehi, Schlotterbeck, or Lacroix) and boosting attack/creativity (with Semenyo and TchouamΓ©ni). Whether they move mid-season or wait for summer will depend on how urgent their needs feel β and how willing they are to spend.