Liverpool Favourites to Sign Premier League Star in January

Credit to Lewis Steele, who spoke to Dave Davis for Anfield Index, for the original reporting and insight that has sparked fresh debate around Liverpool’s winter priorities. With the club enduring a bruising title defence under Arne Slot and currently sitting 12th in the table, attention has rapidly turned to recruitment. Nine losses from the last twelve games have shaken confidence and prompted understandable questions about the manager’s future. Yet the message from those closest to the club is that January could still be proactive rather than reactive.

Liverpool’s interest in Antoine Semenyo is gathering serious momentum, with the AFC Bournemouth forward edging toward the top of the winter shortlist. Semenyo’s £65m release clause becomes active in January and Lewis Steele’s comments highlight just how strongly Liverpool are pushing.

Semenyo’s Rise and Liverpool’s Attraction

Semenyo has evolved into one of the Premier League’s most destructive transitional forwards. Only Erling Haaland has more goal contributions in the division this season, which speaks volumes about both form and ceiling. Liverpool’s wider recruitment model has always targeted players on the upward curve and Semenyo fits that profile with precision.

Steele made clear how close the move came during the summer window.
“I wouldn’t be surprised at all if Antoine Semenyo is a Liverpool player in January.”
“That’s not to say that it will definitely happen but Liverpool were very keen on him in the summer and a few conversations had taken place.”

Those conversations were paused as the club prioritised Milos Kerkez, with left back viewed as a more immediate concern.
“But then, Milos Kerkez was seen as the bigger priority as Liverpool needed a left-back.”

That shift in focus ultimately delayed Semenyo pursuit, not derailed it.

Competition and Opportunity

The market will not be without rivals.
“There are other clubs interested like Man City, but I’m not sure they will go in for him when they still have Jeremy Doku, Omar Marmoush and Savinho.”

That assessment places Liverpool in a favourable position. The club have long operated best when leading a race early and the expectation among insiders is that the path to Semenyo is clearer than it first appeared.
“Liverpool are the frontrunners right now and it would be a massive signing.”

For a side desperate for renewed energy and incision, the timing could be perfect.

Momentum Needed At Anfield

Performances have dipped dramatically since the turn of autumn. Slot’s debut season delivered the Premier League title, but the current campaign has unravelled at alarming speed. A major attacking addition in January would provide impetus, variety and crucial confidence for a squad that looks emotionally drained. Steele’s final reflection sharpened that point.
“It would give everyone a boost at Liverpool given their recent form, so let’s keep an eye on it.”

Recruitment will not fix every issue, but decisive moves in January could salvage competitiveness and ease pressure on a manager still adapting to England’s most unforgiving environment. If Semenyo becomes the headline signing, it will underline Liverpool’s intent to rebuild momentum before the season drifts further from reach.