Liverpool 'tipped to sign' five players in January transfer window
The January transfer window is always an interesting on for Liverpool.
While manager Jurgen Klopp is not the kind of character to indulge in the slapdash spending
the mid-season market tends to encourage, he's shown that he's not afraid to buy in
the first month of the year should the right player come available.
Most notably, Virgil van Dijk was brought in four years ago, while Takumi Minamino was
signed in the January window of 2020.
The involvement of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Naby Keita in the Africa Cup of Nations
has left a void in the squad, which many assumed could lead Reds boss Klopp to New Year signings.
However, Liverpool have been able to cope well enough so far, booking their place in
the Carabao Cup final last night thanks to a brace from Diogo Jota.
At this point, it's fair to say that it would be a shock to see any player brought in this
month.
However, the bookmakers aren't too sure that a deal will not happen.
And here are some players who they have the Reds in the market to land in January.
Luis Diaz (Porto) - 4/1
A number of outlets have reported that Colombian winger Luis Diaz is a target for Liverpool
this month.
The Porto star is enjoying a superb season, and the Reds are seemingly eyeing a back-up
option for Salah and Mane.
However, rumours were then quashed by transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, who said he does
not expect Liverpool to make a move for Diaz.
Porto reportedly set his price tag at £58m, which could well put the Reds off if their
apparent interest is genuine.
Raphinha (Leeds United) - 7/1
The only other player who the oddsmakers believe is likely is Raphinha.
The Brazil international has been linked with a switch to Anfield for some time.
No wonder, either, as Raphinha was excellent in his debut term for Leeds United and has
been fantastic again this season, showcasing the talent and physicality to thrive in English
football.
With Salah currently absent, another player who could cut in on his left foot and provide
a threat from the right flank would be ideal.
However, it's difficult to see Leeds entertaining any offers for such a key player at this stage.
Ivan Toney (Brentford) - 16/1
Brentford striker Ivan Toney has made no secret of his affinity for Liverpool.
And based on what he's shown in the Premier League so far for Brentford, the striker would
be able to add a different dimension to Klopp's front line.
Toney may not possess the same technical skill as some of the Reds' current attackers, but
his physicality and link play has been sharp for the Bees.
Although the player himself could be keen on the switch, Brentford would be reluctant
to do any deal, as losing their star forward would be a major dent to their hopes of preserving
their place in the top flight.
Gini Wijnaldum (Paris Saint-Germain) - 16/1
A return to Anfield has been tentatively mentioned in recent weeks, but this is one we can almost
certainly rule out now.
After a rocky start to life in Paris, the Dutchman has now began to play more under
Mauricio Pochettino and alongside the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Neymar.
If Wijnaldum stays at PSG, he will hope to win his second Champions League after winning
his first with Liverpool.
Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United) - 16/1
The fact Klopp is an admirer of Jarrod Bowen is well known.
And the West Ham forward has enjoyed a strong campaign so far.
The 25-year-old is expected to be named in the next England squad, which could see his
transfer fee, already thought to be in the £50m-region, substantially rise.
So a move this window is highly unlikely.