Despite a downturn in results last season, Liverpool appear to be back in the current campaign. Jurgen Klopp has found a way to kick his side on once again after fears of burnout last season, with a number of swashbuckling performances captivating fans in recent weeks. Thankfully, for supporters of the Reds, more good times could be on the horizon under the German favourite, although the team requires further strengthening in January and beyond if it’s to close the gap with Manchester City.
Make no mistake about it: Pep Guardiola’s side are still the team to beat to the title, despite the likes of Tottenham making an impressively strong start to the campaign under new manager Ange Postecoglou. Liverpool have also shone on numerous occasions and are in the mix so far, and the Premier League odds suggest that Liverpool are more than capable of challenging. One thing’s for sure, if the Reds are planning on mounting a title charge this season, reinforcements in key areas of the pitch in January will certainly strengthen their chances.
According to numerous reports, Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool’s hierarchy have been assessing a number of key January targets ahead of making a few potential moves when the transfer window reopens in the New Year. While Dominik Szoboszlai’s performances have caught the eye, some further acquisitions are needed if a serious title assault is to be taken seriously, be it this season or even next campaign. Below is a look at just some of the names being linked with a move to Anfield in the near future.
Klopp is apparently obsessed with Ezequiel Fernández
Liverpool could do with another midfielder or two if they’re to really compete with some of the leagues big guns this season. Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai have both impressed on numerous occasions, but there is an evident need to add to what is a key area of the pitch. A youngster in the shape of Ezequiel Fernández certainly fits the bill in that respect, with the Boca Juniors talent bursting onto the scene in South America and attracting the interest of some of Europe’s biggest clubs in the process. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Klopp is obsessed with the idea of signing the 21-year-old Argentine midfielder, although competition for his signature is likely to be strong.
Youssoufa Moukoko could be targeted
Ask most Borussia Dortmund fans what they think about Youssoufa Moukoko and they’ll undoubtedly tell you that the talented 18-year-old has the world at his feet. Alongside giants like Real Madrid and Barcelona, Liverpool are keeping tabs on young forward’s progress as they aim to add more goalscoring firepower to their ranks, particularly if any players in forward areas of the pitch depart the club in the future. A player Klopp undoubtedly knows well given his contacts in Germany, Youssoufa Moukoko could easily be targeted in January.
Victor Osimhen is still being monitored
One of the hottest properties in world football at the moment, Liverpool are among a number of elite sides who are monitoring Victor Osimhen’s situation at Napoli. While reports of an agreement already being in place for the Nigerian maestro appear to be false, the Reds are clearly keen on the goal machine. A move in January might be off the cards, although stranger things have happened, particularly if the club lose Mohamed Salah to a Saudi side, something that isn’t out of the question. Although they occupy different areas of the pitch, Liverpool could reshuffle their forward line and add Victor Osimhen as they attempt to secure European football for next season and maybe even push for a seemingly unlikely Premier League title.
Nico Williams is a player Liverpool have followed closely
One of La Liga’s brightest young sparks, Nico Williams is a player many of Europe’s biggest clubs would surely be keen on should he become available. His club, Athletic Bilbao, appear confident of retaining his services for now and have recently outlined their confidence in him committing to the club in the long term, but a move for the energetic winger could certainly test both the club and the player’s resolve. Given his need to play at the highest level if he is to become an integral part of Spain’s squad moving forward, Nico Williams would surely be interested in a move to the biggest league around with Liverpool.
Liverpool could move for Andre Trindade once again
Yet another midfielder being linked with a move to the club, Liverpool could reignite their interest in Andre Trindade in January. After being capped by Brazil, Fluminense are reportedly holding out for £35 million for their midfield prodigy. Liverpool have already shown an interest in the Brazilian, with Fluminense president Mario Bitterncourt revealing that he had been contacted by the club in the summer. Should Klopp be pushing for midfield reinforcements, a move for Andre Trindade could be on the cards once again.
