Liverpool move into market after right back injuries
Liverpool have edged closer to making a late decision in the January window as Arne Slot weighs up his options following a damaging run of injuries at right back. With Jeremie Frimpong sidelined and Conor Bradley ruled out for the season, recruitment staff have stepped up their monitoring of the market, with Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries now emerging as a credible target.
Slot confirmed on Friday that Frimpong will miss “a few weeks” after suffering a hamstring injury during Wednesday’s emphatic 6-0 Champions League win over Qarabag. Bradley, meanwhile, is facing a lengthy spell out with a serious knee issue, leaving Liverpool short in a position that had been well stocked only weeks ago.
When asked if those setbacks would prompt movement before Monday’s Deadline Day, Slot chose his words carefully. “I think you know the answer. The answer is if we think a player can help us and we think it is possible, we will do so.
“Those are conversations that do not take place in this room. “I gave the answer I gave. If that means it’s likely or unlikely then okay. It could be a quiet day Monday. You want to play golf?”
Despite the light hearted tone, the message was clear, Liverpool are prepared to act if the right opportunity presents itself.
Arne Slot stance on late transfer business
Slot later expanded on Liverpool’s long term thinking, stressing that any move would have to fit both sporting and financial criteria. “We as a club always make smart decisions. We not only look at the short-term but the long-term. That’s why we sign young players, who can develop. It always depends on if there are players that are available that we think can help us.
“If they are, can we afford them? And is this to be helpful for the longer-term future, because our players come back from injury as well. We have to do smart things for the near future and the longer future.”
Liverpool do have internal solutions, with Joe Gomez, Wataru Endo and Curtis Jones capable of filling in, but Frimpong’s injury has added further strain to a squad already being stretched by a congested fixture list.
Denzel Dumfries emerges as Liverpool target
Against that backdrop, Liverpool’s interest in Denzel Dumfries has become more concrete. Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio reports that Liverpool have made enquiries with Inter Milan about the Dutch international, with the Premier League champions keen to understand the feasibility of a late deal.
Dumfries has been a key figure at Inter Milan for several seasons, known for his power, athleticism and attacking output from right back. This campaign he has made 15 appearances across all competitions and scored three goals, underlining his value at both ends of the pitch.
Any deal will depend on two factors, Dumfries’ own recovery from a minor fitness issue and Inter Milan’s willingness to sanction a departure so late in the window. The Serie A leaders are said to be considering Norton-Cuffy as a possible replacement, which could influence their final stance.
Inter Milan position on potential exit
Inter Milan remain reluctant sellers, but Liverpool’s situation could test that resolve. With Slot’s side needing immediate cover and longer term depth, Dumfries represents a rare blend of experience and reliability that fits the club’s recruitment model.
As Deadline Day approaches, Liverpool are expected to stay alert rather than reactive, but the links to Inter Milan and Denzel Dumfries suggest genuine groundwork has already been laid. Whether it turns into a deal will hinge on timing, fitness and Inter’s final call, but Liverpool are clearly ready to move if the conditions are right.
