Liverpool Must Take ‘Huge Opportunity’ in January Transfer Window – Opinion | OneFootball

Liverpool Must Act in January to Secure Midfield Stability

As the Premier League season resumes in a week or so, Liverpool find themselves walking a tightrope. While their start has been commendable, there’s a sense that the current squad’s midfield depth might not be enough to sustain a title charge. With City likely to bolster their ranks in January, the stakes couldn’t be higher for the Reds. Jamie Carragher’s stark warning and James Pearce’s measured insight paint a picture of urgency and opportunity for Liverpool.

Liverpool’s Midfield Gamble: A Risk Too Great?

Liverpool’s pursuit of Martín Zubimendi in the summer highlighted their awareness of a potential midfield vulnerability. The club reportedly agreed to meet Zubimendi’s £51 million release clause, only for the Spaniard to stay at Real Sociedad. Instead, they’ve turned to Ryan Gravenberch, who has exceeded expectations and played every single minute in both the Premier League and Champions League so far. Gravenberch’s performances have been stellar, but asking him to shoulder the burden of an entire season is a gamble that could backfire. Let’s not pretend this was expected or planned for.

Photo: IMAGO

Jamie Carragher was blunt in his assessment: “If I was Liverpool I would be doing that (strengthening in January)… Zubimendi is the player he wanted, they ended up putting Gravenberch there who has been fantastic, but if he is the player you want – go and do it – you might never be in this position.”

City’s Potential Moves Could Widen the Gap

History tells us that Manchester City are unlikely to sit still in January. They have a habit of identifying and securing reinforcements at the right time, and there’s every indication they’ll do so again. As Carragher pointed out, “You might be here three years but City are City and they are five points ahead of you at Christmas. Just make it count.”

Liverpool’s rivals’ propensity for shrewd mid-season business underscores the importance of the Reds acting decisively. Failure to strengthen in January could leave them trailing a City side that’s likely to find an extra gear in the second half of the season. There’s a reason and a ruthlessness in why city will do it. Liverpool need to do the same.

Endo’s Role Highlights Depth Concerns

Wataru Endo’s limited minutes under Arne Slot offer further evidence that Liverpool are walking a fine line in midfield. Endo, signed as a rotation option, has yet to earn the trust of his manager, leaving the Reds overly reliant on Gravenberch and other midfield mainstays. As James Pearce explained: “I’d be surprised if Liverpool do much, if anything, in the January window. Slot believes he has depth in all departments and his options will be enhanced with the returns of Diogo Jota, Harvey Elliott, Federico Chiesa and Alisson.”

Photo: IMAGO

While optimism around squad depth is understandable, injuries and fatigue are inevitable over a long season. A fresh midfield addition could provide Liverpool with the security they need to avoid a catastrophic dip in form. Numbers and real options are different things.

January Could Decide Liverpool’s Fate

Liverpool’s reluctance to overspend and sometimes do anything in the transfer market is well-known, but January presents a unique opportunity to strengthen at a time when the team is poised for success. Whether it’s reigniting their interest in Zubimendi or targeting another proven midfielder, Liverpool must act boldly. With Gravenberch already exceeding expectations, an additional signing would not only ease the load but also ensure the Reds can compete with City’s inevitable surge.

Carragher’s words serve as a reminder of what’s at stake: “There’s a long way to go, I get that, but we know Liverpool don’t do silly things in the transfer market but if there is something there right now. Do it.” Inaction could cost Liverpool dearly, and with City ready to pounce, January may well be the pivotal month in the Premier League title race.