Trusted journalist reveals January transfer plans at Liverpool

Liverpool are “only interested in making a defensive signing” in the January transfer window, according to The Athletic journalist James Pearce.

The Reds lost Joe Gomez and Virgil van Dijk to serious injuries earlier this season and in their last match against Southampton they played midfielders Jordan Henderson and Fabinho as their two centre-backs.

Liverpool do have Rhys Williams and Nathaniel Phillips as young centre-backs, while Joel Matip has been in and out of the side due to injury, but it has been rumoured that they could sign a defender in January.

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However, Pearce has claimed that the Reds will only splash out on a new centre-back if he fits into their long-term plan.

Speaking on The Athletic’s Red Agenda podcast, Pearce said: “They very rarely go in for short-term fixes.

“From what I’ve been told, Liverpool are only interested in making a defensive signing this month – firstly if the price is right – and secondly if he’s a player they believe can fit in for the longer term.

“Not just someone who can just do a job until Van Dijk or Gomez are back, but someone who will actually enhance and compliment what they’ve got for seasons to come.

“I think the feeling is that it’s going to be easier to get someone like that in the summer.

“But, quite rightly, fans are worried about the here and now and not recruiting in January could end up proving very costly in terms of the Premier League and the battle for Champions League glory this season.”