The January window is rarely the time for blockbuster rebuilds, but for Liverpool FC, the winter of 2026 presents a specific set of challenges that demand precision rather than panic. After a summer that saw significant investment, the first half of the 2025/26 season has exposed some lingering gaps. The Reds are still competing on multiple fronts, but depth in key positions and the potential departure of a long-serving backup goalkeeper have created vulnerabilities that Arne Slot cannot ignore until summer.
This checklist breaks down the priority areas Liverpool must address before the window slams shut. It is not about signing a superstar for the sake of it; it is about plugging specific leaks in a squad that aims to defend the Premier League title and go deep in the Champions League.
1. Secure a Reliable Backup Goalkeeper
The potential departure of Caoimhín Kelleher—who may seek regular first-team football—leaves Liverpool with a clear gap between the posts. Alisson Becker remains world-class, but his injury record in recent seasons is a concern. Behind him, the options are unproven at Premier League level.
What to look for:
- A goalkeeper comfortable with playing out from the back, as Slot demands.
- Someone willing to accept a rotational role but capable of starting 10–15 games across all competitions.
- Ideally, a profile similar to Kelleher: calm under pressure and reliable in cup ties.
For a deeper dive into the market, check our analysis of Kelleher replacement options.
2. Address the Left-Back Depth
Milos Kerkez arrived in the summer with high expectations, and his attacking output has been promising. However, his defensive positioning has been exposed in high-pressure Premier League matches, and the lack of a reliable alternative on the left has forced Slot to occasionally shift players out of position.
Priority checklist:
- A left-back who can defend compactly when Liverpool are under sustained pressure.
- Someone with Premier League experience or a proven track record in a top-five league.
- Ideally, a player who can also cover as a left-sided centre-back in a back-three setup—a tactical flexibility Slot has experimented with.
3. Evaluate the Central Midfield Balance
The trio of Florian Wirtz, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai has produced moments of brilliance, but there is a recurring issue: defensive solidity in transition. When Liverpool lose possession, the midfield can be bypassed too easily, leaving the back four exposed.
What to assess:
- Do you need a dedicated defensive midfielder who can sit deeper and break up play?
- Or is the solution tactical—adjusting the pressing triggers rather than signing another player?
Winter window reality: Top-tier defensive midfielders are rarely available in January. A loan move for a player with Premier League experience might be the most viable path.
4. Decide on the Right-Back Future
Trent Alexander-Arnold remains one of the most creative players in world football, but his contract situation has been a topic of discussion. With Jeremie Frimpong also in the squad, Liverpool have two attacking right-backs who excel in possession but share similar defensive vulnerabilities.
Key questions:
- Is Trent staying long-term? If yes, how do you balance his minutes with Frimpong's development?
- If there is uncertainty, should the club move for a more defensively solid option in the summer and wait?
5. Monitor the Striker Rotation
Alexander Isak has been the focal point of Liverpool's attack, and his movement has created space for Wirtz and Salah. But the drop-off when he rests is noticeable. Darwin Núñez remains a chaotic but inconsistent alternative, and the lack of a third reliable option in the box could become critical in a congested fixture list.
Checklist for this position:
- Is the backup striker clinical enough to convert the chances created by this creative midfield?
- Can they press effectively for 90 minutes when asked to lead the line?
6. Plan for the Summer—But Act Now if the Right Player Appears
The winter window is often about patience. Liverpool's transfer policy under the current regime has favoured long-term planning over panic buys. However, if a player who fits the squad profile for the next 3–4 years becomes available—especially in the goalkeeper or left-back positions—the club should move.
Decision framework:
| Priority Level | Position | Urgency | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| High | Backup Goalkeeper | Immediate | Sign or loan |
| Medium | Left-Back Depth | High | Sign if available |
| Medium | Defensive Midfield | Tactical | Evaluate system first |
| Low | Right-Back Future | Monitor | Plan for summer |
| Low | Backup Striker | Luxury | Only if exceptional deal |
Final Checklist for the Window
Before the deadline, Liverpool's recruitment team should have clear answers to these questions:
- Goalkeeper: Do we trust the current backup for a Champions League knockout match? If no, sign.
- Left-back: Can Kerkez handle 40+ starts without burnout? If no, add cover.
- Midfield balance: Is the transition issue tactical or personnel? If the latter, identify a target for summer.
- Contract clarity: Are we confident Trent stays? If not, prepare a succession plan.
- Striker depth: Is Núñez enough for a title run? If not, look for a loan option.
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