Arne Slot must think he is dreaming after the start of his Liverpool career. His side currently sits at the top of the table with Arsenal, Chelsea, and Nottingham Forest their closest rivals heading into the New Year.
Just one defeat this season has seen the side race clear of their competitors in the eyes of bookmakers who have them as 1/4 favourites to lift the title. Arsenal looks to be the biggest threat, but a resurgent Chelsea could also pose problems. Most surprisingly, Manchester City’s meltdown has all but ruled out their chances of retaining the EPL title.
The bookmakers in the country, as well as offshore operators who accept players from the UK also have Mo Salah in place as the favourite to finish top scorer.
Sports betting expert Ciaran McEneaney explains that the great selection of bookmakers ensures fans can find markets for most outcomes, and with excellent bonuses and competitive odds it is worth searching for the best deals on Liverpool’s potential successes this season.
Critics have been quick to point out that Slot has inherited a good team and that Klopp should be the one being praised. However, Slot is the one that has steered the side to the top of the EPL as well as the Champions League where the team have won all six games, conceding just once in the process.
A good January transfer window could give the team an even bigger chance of winning silverware this year.
The Contract Situation
The most important business Liverpool is likely to do this January could be regarding existing players rather than new signings. Three of the best players in Europe could potentially leave for nothing when their contracts expire in the Summer, and Slot will be eager to resolve these deals before anything else.
Salah
The current form of Mo Salah is nothing short of exceptional. There had been concerns about offering him a contract as he will turn 33 in the Summer, but if he continues to perform at this level his age will be no concern.
From his 18 matches played in the Premier League season, Salah has 30 goal involvements, this includes 17 goals and 13 assists. From Liverpool’s 6 Champions League games, he has another 2 goals and 4 assists.
Despite reports that the player and club are far away from an agreement, there are rumours that a 2-year extension has been agreed with just his image rights to be negotiated.
VVD
Virgil Van Dijk is another important player for Liverpool, and the defender has been instrumental for the side. The club captain will turn 34 in the Summer, but age is less of an issue for centre-backs, with experience playing a key role.
Like Salah, it is expected that VVD will sign a two-year extension soon and put an end to the rumours of him leaving.
TAA
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s contract situation is more of a concern with persistent rumours about Real Madrid’s interest in the fullback. At just 26, he still has the best years of his footballing career ahead of him and he could command a massive wage if he were to move.
Players Being Linked with a Move to Anfield
There is no question that the Liverpool squad has been performing exceptionally this season, but adding a bit of quality in January could help. The club were not particularly active over the Summer, but some positions could use a bit more depth.
The left-back and defensive midfield areas could do with a bit more cover, and Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi could be a great option to provide Ryan Gravenberch with cover despite rejecting the club last Summer.
Jeremie Frimpong of Bayer Leverkusen is another player being linked with a move to some of Europe’s top clubs, and his versatility in being able to play in both full-back positions would suit the club.
