Liverpool may finalize up to four outgoing transfers before the closure of the January window.
While the Reds, like many Premier League teams, are not anticipated to make any new signings between now and February 1st, they are considering several outgoing deals.
Jurgen Klopp’s squad has recalled several players this month who had unsuccessful loan spells. Fabio Carvalho, for instance, returned from RB Leipzig and was subsequently loaned to Hull City. Rhys Williams, having struggled to make an impact at Aberdeen, joined Port Vale.
Despite these moves, there are still players back at Anfield without secured clubs for the second half of the season. Among them is Billy Koumetio, a teenage centre-back once highly anticipated by Liverpool. Koumetio has returned from Ligue 2, where he played for USL Dunkerque.
However, he only made nine appearances, receiving a red card on his debut. Despite being under contract until 2025, it seems unlikely that Koumetio has a first-team future at Merseyside, despite making two senior appearances for the club.
Calvin Ramsay has returned to Anfield following a less-than-ideal stint with Championship side Preston North End. The 20-year-old Scottish right-back, signed from Aberdeen for a sum of up to £6.5 million two years ago, had a disappointing run with the Lilywhites, making only two appearances due to injury and fierce competition for positions.
Considering the emergence of Conor Bradley and the impending return of Trent Alexander-Arnold from injury this month, it is anticipated that Ramsay will be sent out on loan once again. Meanwhile, fellow defender Nat Phillips finds himself in a precarious situation.
Phillips’ time at Celtic in Scotland did not unfold as planned, and the Hoops decided against extending his six-month stay in Glasgow. At 26 years old, Phillips is at a career crossroads, seeking a new permanent club after serving as a backup at Liverpool.
Despite a setback in Scotland, Phillips might remain at Liverpool for the rest of the season due to Joel Matip’s season-ending injury. In the absence of Matip, Phillips could serve as a crucial backup if Ibrahima Konate or Joe Gomez face injuries before the campaign concludes.
Jurgen Klopp ideally wishes to prioritize Phillips’ playing time, allowing him to showcase his skills and attract potential suitors. However, Klopp faces the dilemma of not wanting to leave the team short-handed in defense.
Another player expected to return this month and likely head back out on loan is James Balagizi. The 20-year-old midfielder, formerly associated with Manchester City, spent the first half of the season at Wigan Athletic, making seven appearances for the Latics in League One.
Balagizi experienced a fruitful period in League Two with Crawley Town last season, but unfortunately, an injury brought his campaign to an early conclusion. In light of this, Liverpool is contemplating the possibility of loaning the England under-20 international to the EFL’s fourth tier before the transfer window closes.
Having inked a fresh contract with Anfield just last July, the midfielder is keen on securing regular playing time to expedite his development. Despite not having made an appearance for the Liverpool first team, he nurtures aspirations for a future with the club.
Similar ambitions are harbored by Ramsay, who was recruited to serve as Alexander-Arnold’s long-term backup or potentially his successor if the teammate transitions to a permanent midfield role in the years to come.
However, for Koumetio and Phillips, it seems more a matter of when than if they will eventually make permanent departures. These permanent moves might not materialize until the summer, though.
Every Liverpool January transfer exit so far this month
Rhys Williams to Port Vale (loan)
Fabio Carvalho to Hull City (loan)
Luke Chambers to Wigan Athletic (loan)
Marcelo Pitaluga to St Patrick’s Athletic (loan)
In other Liverpool news, Gary Lineker Disagrees With The Athletic as He Claims Liverpool Player is Better Than Napoli Star Victor Osimhen