Liverpool’s January 2026 transfer window is beginning to take clearer shape, and while no first-team signing has yet been officially announced, Sky Sports understands that several high-level discussions and developments have been confirmed behind the scenes. The picture emerging from Anfield is one of calculated intent rather than hesitation, with the club now expected to act in a window they initially planned to approach cautiously.
At this stage, Liverpool have not formally unveiled an incoming player, but sources close to the club confirm that preparations for at least one January move are well advanced. Among all the names circulating, Marc Guéhi has emerged as the most concrete and credible target. Liverpool remain firmly in the race to sign the England international from Crystal Palace, with strong indications that they are currently leading the chase. Palace are understood to be weighing up a January sale, potentially in the region of £35 million, rather than risk losing Guéhi for nothing when his contract runs down in the summer.
Sky Sports has been told that Liverpool may be the only club prepared to make a decisive January move for Guéhi, a factor that could significantly strengthen their position in negotiations. Internally, the defender is viewed as a near-ideal fit for Liverpool’s needs: Premier League-proven, tactically intelligent, comfortable in possession and entering his peak years. With defensive depth having been a recurring concern, Guéhi is seen as a logical and priority reinforcement should a deal be agreed.
Alongside that pursuit, Liverpool’s interest in Antoine Semenyo is also described as genuine and advanced. Sources confirm that direct contact has taken place between Liverpool and Bournemouth regarding a potential January move for the winger. Semenyo’s situation is being closely monitored, particularly with reports suggesting a release clause could become active in the winter window. While Manchester United and other clubs are also believed to be tracking the player, Liverpool’s proactive approach has placed them firmly in the conversation. The club sees Semenyo as a powerful, Premier League-ready attacker who fits the intensity and tactical demands of Arne Slot’s system.
Defensively, Liverpool are also exploring alternative or supplementary options. One name that continues to surface is Wilfried Singo, the former Galatasaray full-back. While no formal bid has been made, Singo is regarded as a possible addition should Liverpool decide to strengthen their defensive options further during the window. His versatility and physical profile appeal to Liverpool’s recruitment team, particularly as the club looks to balance immediate needs with long-term squad planning.
Away from the first team, there is also confirmation of movement at academy level. Dara Jikiemi, a highly rated 15-year-old talent from Celtic, is reportedly close to joining Liverpool’s youth setup once he turns 16 in January. This would be an academy signing rather than a first-team addition, but it underlines Liverpool’s continued commitment to securing elite young prospects early.
In terms of departures, speculation continues around Darwin Núñez, with reports suggesting an agreement may be in place for a potential move to Al Hilal. However, Sky Sports understands that this situation remains separate from Liverpool’s January recruitment plans and has not yet been fully finalised. Any exit would be handled independently of incoming business.
Mohamed Salah’s future has also been the subject of ongoing discussion, but Liverpool remain relaxed about the situation. Manager Arne Slot expects Salah to stay beyond January, and there is no current indication that the club is preparing for a mid-season departure. Internally, a January exit is considered unlikely.
Transfer insiders, including Fabrizio Romano, have indicated that Liverpool are now more open to making at least one January signing than they were earlier in the season. That marks a subtle but important shift in strategy, driven by squad needs and the availability of key targets. Former players and pundits have echoed that assessment, repeatedly pointing to centre-back reinforcement as the most pressing requirement, further highlighting why Guéhi sits at the top of Liverpool’s list.
As things stand, there are no officially confirmed inbound first-team signings for January 2026. However, the strongest and most credible links are clear. Marc Guéhi remains the leading contender and a high-priority target, Antoine Semenyo represents a serious attacking option with direct talks confirmed, and Wilfried Singo remains a possible defensive addition depending on how the window develops. Dara Jikiemi is expected to join at youth level, adding depth to Liverpool’s academy rather than the senior squad.
For now, Liverpool’s approach remains controlled but decisive. The groundwork has been laid, conversations are ongoing, and the club appears ready to move when conditions align. With the window progressing and pressure mounting, confirmation may soon follow the speculation — and Liverpool’s January plans could finally turn from discussion into action.
