As the end of 2024 draws near, many fans and analysts are shifting their attention to the January transfer window. For Liverpool supporters, however, the new year may bring more anxiety than excitement.
Under manager Arne Slot, Liverpool is performing exceptionally well, leading both the Premier League and the Champions League. Despite these on-field successes, the club is facing some pressing off-field matters that urgently need to be addressed. Three of Liverpool’s most influential players—Virgil van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Mohamed Salah—are nearing the end of their contracts, with each becoming free agents at the close of the season. With less than two months before they’re allowed to negotiate pre-contract deals with clubs outside of England, Liverpool’s ownership group, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), faces a race against time to lock in these key players for the future. Reports from Spain suggest that one of these stars could even leave Anfield before the season ends.
According to Spanish publication Defensa Central, Liverpool may consider a swap deal in January involving Trent Alexander-Arnold and Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni. The rumored proposal would see Alexander-Arnold, valued at $27 million (£21 million/€25 million), exchanged alongside a player—likely Tchouameni. Real Madrid is reportedly growing frustrated with Tchouameni, and Liverpool, who had shown strong interest in the French midfielder back in 2022, might try once more to bring him to Merseyside. The move would be bold, as Alexander-Arnold has been an essential part of Liverpool’s squad, known for his playmaking abilities and set-piece skills.
Adding to the intrigue, Liverpool recently unveiled their home kit for the 2024/2025 season, featuring a chrome yellow design that pays homage to the club’s celebrated 1984 shirt. That season saw Liverpool claim their fourth European Cup and become the first English team to secure a treble of major trophies, adding another layer of nostalgia to the design.
Meanwhile, Liverpool has also been dealing with rumors regarding Federico Chiesa. According to reports from Inter Live, the club is expected to turn down any bids for Chiesa during the January window. Although Chiesa joined Liverpool last summer, speculation has arisen that he could return to Italy due to recent struggles and an ongoing injury that has kept him sidelined for the last nine games. Inter Milan and Roma are rumored to have spoken with his agent, given Chiesa’s limited adaptation to the Premier League. Manager Arne Slot acknowledged that Chiesa has found it challenging to settle into Liverpool’s style but is hopeful he will rejoin training soon.
Liverpool.com comments that a return to Italy for Chiesa would not reflect well on Liverpool, especially after such a brief stint on Merseyside. Chiesa must find his rhythm and adapt quickly to make an impact with the team.
