Liverpool Eye Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens: A Sensible January Move?
As Liverpool enter a challenging stretch of the 2024/25 season, the need for squad reinforcements is starting to loom large. With Arne Slot’s team riding high on form, having won 10 of their first 11 matches, there’s little room for complacency. The January transfer window could provide the perfect opportunity to bolster the squad, and according to BILD, Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens is a prime target.
Liverpool’s Squad Depth Faces Its First Real Test
The upcoming fixtures will be a stern test of Liverpool’s squad depth, and while the team has coped well so far, injuries or fatigue could expose weaknesses. Slot’s side, though in stellar form, haven’t added much to their ranks in the summer. So, the depth question lingers as they push to challenge for the Premier League title and maintain their European momentum.
With Liverpool having a history of making key January signings—Virgil van Dijk’s record move in 2018 being the prime example—it’s no surprise that speculation is growing. While fans might clamour for a new midfielder or centre-back, BILD reports that the focus might be on attacking reinforcements, specifically Jamie Gittens.
Jamie Gittens: Dortmund’s Rising Star
At just 20 years old, Gittens has already impressed in the Bundesliga and the Champions League. Having scored four goals and provided two assists in just 10 appearances this season, the former Manchester City academy graduate is making waves. He’s versatile, English, and young—qualities that align well with Liverpool’s transfer philosophy under the FSG ownership model. Pascal Gross, a Bundesliga veteran, has labelled Gittens as “unbelievably strong,” and his potential is clear to see.
BILD has suggested that Borussia Dortmund are reluctant to let Gittens go for less than £83m, although a more realistic valuation would see the fee closer to £29m. With clubs like Tottenham and Chelsea reportedly circling, Dortmund are likely to drive a hard bargain, especially for a player they see as integral to their future.
Salah’s Successor in Waiting?
Liverpool’s attack is still firing, but the club’s long-term planning needs to account for Mohamed Salah’s future. Whether the Egyptian signs a new deal or not, Liverpool will soon need a replacement who can fill his boots. Gittens, with his experience in the Bundesliga and Champions League, could well be moulded into that successor.
However, with Gittens still raw and developing, he would not necessarily be expected to hit the ground running. Instead, he could provide an important option off the bench, learning from Salah while offering a youthful alternative to Liverpool’s experienced frontline.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
Liverpool fans will likely have mixed feelings about a potential move for Jamie Gittens. On one hand, his youth, talent, and versatility make him a tantalising prospect, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah’s long-term future at Anfield. A young English forward already performing on the European stage ticks many of the right boxes for a club that has thrived on developing young talent.
However, the reported price tag of £83m could be a sticking point for many supporters. While Liverpool have not been shy about splashing the cash on the right players, particularly in January, fans might wonder if the club’s transfer budget would be better spent on strengthening other areas of the squad, such as central defence or midfield. After all, Gittens, despite his potential, remains a relatively unproven talent.
