Liverpool's attacking options are looking thin, and with the January transfer window looming, the Reds might need to bolster their forward line. But who could they realistically target?
Last summer, Liverpool saw key players like Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez, and Diogo Jota depart, while reinforcements in the form of Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike arrived. However, the team already started the season with one less attacker than the previous year, and losing Alexander Isak until spring, coupled with Mo Salah's absence for AFCON, has created a significant void.
Other existing options include Federico Chiesa, who isn't quite at the level to start regularly, and 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha, who has only played a handful of league minutes this season. Meanwhile, Cody Gakpo's performances on the left wing have been underwhelming, making that position a potential area for improvement. This leaves Hugo Ekitike, who, despite being a promising striker, can't be expected to play every minute.
So, let's explore some potential January transfer targets.
The Wildcard: Yan Diomande
- Club: RB Leipzig
- Age: 19
- Preferred foot: Right
- 2025/26 league goals+assists per 90: 0.81
Diomande has quickly become a breakout star in the Bundesliga this season. He's made a remarkable journey, going from playing in the fourth division of the American system just a couple of years ago to making waves in Europe. RB Leipzig recognized his talent early, signing him after Leganes. This gamble has paid off handsomely, with Diomande already scoring seven goals and providing four assists in just 16 appearances.
Liverpool's interest is currently speculative, with reporter Fabrizio Romano suggesting the Reds are among several clubs interested. However, Leipzig seems unlikely to let him go in January, with a potential price tag of around €100m (£86.5m).
The Long-Term Prospect: Malick Fofana
- Club: Lyon
- Age: 20
- Preferred foot: Right
- 2025/26 league goals+assists per 90: 0.37
Liverpool showed interest in Malick Fofana over the summer. However, a January move is improbable due to an ankle injury sustained in October, which will keep him sidelined for several months. The only way this deal could happen mid-season would be if Liverpool negotiated a lower price due to his injury, but that's unlikely.
The Premier League Option: Yankuba Minteh
- Club: Brighton
- Age: 21
- Preferred foot: Left
- 2025/26 league goals+assists per 90: 0.29
If Liverpool is looking for an immediate impact, Yankuba Minteh could be a good choice, though he'd have to compete with Salah for a spot on the right wing upon the Egyptian's return from AFCON. Minteh, at 21, has great potential and a strong left foot. While his final product needs improvement, he could be an exciting signing. Liverpool reportedly expressed interest in him in the summer of 2024.
The Dream Signing: Michael Olise
- Club: Bayern Munich
- Age: 24
- Preferred foot: Left
- 2025/26 league goals+assists per 90: 1.15
While Michael Olise would be expensive, potentially costing over £80m, he could be exactly what Liverpool needs on the right wing. With 10 goals and 14 assists already for Bayern this season, he's one of Europe's top attackers.
But here's where it gets controversial... Could Olise be tempted by a return to the Premier League, where he currently earns £200,000 per week? Unfortunately, a January move seems unlikely.
The Summer Prospect: Bradley Barcola
- Club: PSG
- Age: 23
- Preferred foot: Right
- 2025/26 league goals+assists per 90: 0.56
Fans saw Bradley Barcola's quality when he played in both legs of Liverpool's Champions League tie against Paris Saint-Germain in March. He's skillful and fast, and can play through the middle or on the right. Though he's started all six of PSG's Champions League matches this season, he's still linked with a move to Anfield, and Liverpool's interest dates back to before his move from Lyon. He could be available from PSG if Khvicha Kvaratskhelia takes his spot on the left wing.
The One Linked Previously: Rodrygo
- Club: Real Madrid
- Age: 24
- Preferred foot: Right
- 2025/26 league goals+assists per 90: 0.57
Liverpool's interest in Rodrygo goes back to 2016, when they were close to signing him for only £2.6m. While the club dismissed ongoing links in the summer, he is one of the best left-wing options available. His contract at Real Madrid runs until 2028, but he is reportedly considering a move away due to a lack of playing time. Under Xabi Alonso this season, he has played on the left and the right, starting just twice in the Champions League and six times in La Liga.
And this is the part most people miss... Finding the right player in the January transfer window is always a challenge. Liverpool's needs are clear, but securing the right talent at the right price is a complex task.
What do you think? Should Liverpool make a move for an attacker in January? Who would be your top pick from this list, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
