Liverpool are currently not strongly linked with any potential signings. Despite the quiet January transfer window and the lack of prominent names associated with potential Liverpool transfers, an important period lies ahead for the club.
Amidst a closely contested Premier League title race, the Reds are solidifying a squad poised to contend for major trophies in each upcoming season.
As the team positions itself for the final 18 games of the season, Jürgen Klopp is already contemplating four upcoming scenarios to address next month. These include addressing crucial matters in the upcoming summer, such as negotiating new deals for three key stars. The aim is to eliminate any potential uncertainties that could disrupt the team’s performance in the next campaign.
Looking ahead to the challenges of 2024, Newsnow Liverpool has provided its verdict on what will ‘definitely’ happen, adding an extra layer of anticipation for Liverpool supporters.
Joël Matip and Thiago Alcântara Contract Decisions
Less than six months remain on the contracts of Joël Matip and Thiago Alcântara, and neither situation is straightforward. Thiago, who has not played a single minute of competitive football this season, is reported to be considering a potential return in February.
However, Liverpool are unlikely to maintain his current $254,000-per-week (£200k/€231k) salary due to his inactivity. This may prompt him to explore other options, including potential offers in Saudi Arabia.
On the other hand, securing a new deal for Matip would be a logical move. Despite reports linking him to Steven Gerrard’s interest at Al-Ettifaq (via 90Min), Matip has demonstrated his value this season.
With solid performances from Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, there is currently no pressing need to find a new starting center-back. Matip, however, remains a valuable asset, offering strong cover and serving as an option in cup games.
Alexis Mac Allister Moves Into His More Natural Position When Wataru Endō Returns
Alexis Mac Allister has showcased his brilliance on multiple occasions for Liverpool during his inaugural season. However, it’s evident that his skill set aligns more fittingly with roles in the advanced positions on the field.
His adeptness at advancing the ball, demonstrated through both precise passing and skilled dribbling, suggests that he could serve as a valuable option for Dominik Szoboszlai. Additionally, Mac Allister could offer an alternative in the position currently occupied by Curtis Jones.
Considering the recent impressive performances by Wataru Endō, there seems to be no necessity to deploy the Argentina World Cup winner in a less natural position. Endō, the Japanese star, stands out as one of the shrewd acquisitions from the summer transfer window.
Darwin Núñez Goes on Scoring Run
Núñez’s streak of facing disappointments, with shots hitting the woodwork and his initial attempts being thwarted, is bound to conclude soon. Despite these challenges, the Uruguayan has experienced a generally favorable second season, notably surpassing in assists (10) compared to goals (eight) across various competitions.
However, he is poised to enhance his goal-scoring capabilities by discovering that crucial finishing touch. Presently, he has netted five goals from an expected 8.4 goals (xG) in the Premier League. Recent displays suggest that Núñez is on the verge of a positive change in form.
Transfer Priorities Impacted as Three Key Contracts Prioritized
More crucial than any high-profile signing this summer are the impending contract negotiations for three key players, namely Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold. Their pivotal roles in this season’s success make securing their extensions vital, yet all three contracts are due to expire in 2025.
Failing to secure renewals for this trio would be a setback, jeopardizing the progress made. There’s a looming possibility of interest from the Saudi Pro League for Salah, while Real Madrid might explore options with the other two.
Liverpool ideally aim to address these contract situations throughout the summer transfer window, especially since there are no glaring deficiencies in the squad requiring significant investment. These scenarios will undeniably influence Liverpool’s pursuit of silverware in the next two seasons, as Klopp works towards finalizing Liverpool 2.0.
In other Liverpool news, Sporting Director Sends Worrying Message to Jurgen Klopp Over Liverpool’s “Unbelievable” Talent Who “Won’t Compete”