Liverpool’s January Transfer Targets: Martin Zubimendi and a Prolific 18-Goal Striker Among Them

Photo by Nathan Wong on Unsplash

 

Liverpool is in a strong position at the halfway mark of the Premier League season, sitting atop the table. However, much of their dominance stems from an unexpected factor: Manchester City’s uncharacteristic underperformance this year. While the Reds have demonstrated quality and consistency, bolstering their squad could cement their status as title favorites and prepare them for the challenges of the latter half of the campaign.

 

Despite this, they are still strong favourites for now. Currently, their odds of winning the league stand at around -200 with most prominent sportsbook options online. Such has been their dominance that even punters who prefer offshore sportsbooks will have a hard time finding one that’s willing to bet against Liverpool clinching their 20th title next year.  

 

While some are taking a slightly more cautious approach, it truly is Liverpool’s title to lose. However, it is recognised that even though these odds favor the Reds, maintaining them will require more from the team. This is chiefly why Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes are rumored to be eyeing key reinforcements in the January transfer window to address gaps and maintain momentum. 

 

Though Liverpool made headlines with their summer acquisition of Federico Chiesa, there is room for improvement, and this window offers an ideal opportunity to strengthen critical areas of the squad. Their pursuit might begin with Martin Zubimendi, the highly regarded Real Sociedad midfielder. Despite Liverpool’s summer interest, the Spanish playmaker opted to remain at the club, citing loyalty and discomfort with leaving at the time.

 

The Reds are reportedly considering reigniting their efforts, though convincing Zubimendi to change his stance may prove challenging. Should a deal materialize, he could offer critical depth in the defensive midfield role, easing the burden on Ryan Gravenberch and ensuring Liverpool maintains control in tight matches.

 

Another exciting prospect linked to Liverpool is Omar Marmoush, the prolific Eintracht Frankfurt forward who has notched an impressive 18 goals and 12 assists across all competitions this season. With Mohamed Salah in stellar form, the idea of another Egyptian forward joining the squad is tantalizing. Marmoush’s dynamic presence and attacking versatility could add a fresh dimension to the Reds’ frontline.

 

However, questions remain about his long-term consistency and how he would fit into an already crowded attacking lineup featuring six senior forwards. Slot will need to weigh the potential benefits of Marmoush’s explosiveness against the risk of disrupting the harmony within Liverpool’s established attack.

 

Jamal Musiala is also a name that has surfaced in connection with Liverpool, though any deal for the Bayern Munich star seems more feasible for the summer than the winter. With his contract running until 2026, Musiala would command a hefty transfer fee, and Bayern are unlikely to part ways mid-season.

 

In addition to these high-profile targets, the Reds have been linked with Christian Pulisic and Antonee Robinson, two USMNT stars plying their trade in Europe. Pulisic, now at AC Milan, has reportedly caught Liverpool’s attention, though the winger’s age and positional redundancy make this move unlikely.

 

Pulisic has performed admirably in Serie A, but with Liverpool already well-stocked in wide attacking areas, any interest may simply serve as leverage for the American to secure a better deal with his current club. The prospect of signing Pulisic feels more like speculation than a genuine pursuit, as Liverpool focuses on more pressing priorities.

 

Similarly, Antonee Robinson of Fulham has been floated as a potential candidate for the left-back role, raising questions about Andy Robertson’s future. However, at 27, Robinson does not align with Liverpool’s typical transfer policy of targeting younger, high-potential players.