Liverpool isn’t linked strongly with any potential signings at the moment, but there are four upcoming scenarios that Jürgen Klopp will need to address next month
A quiet January transfer window has seen few names properly linked when it comes to potential Liverpool transfers, but there is still an important period coming up for the club. In the middle of what looks to be another close Premier League title race, the Reds are beginning to establish themselves with a squad that looks primed to be back in contention for the biggest trophies every season.
And with 18 games remaining, Jürgen Klopp will already be looking ahead to four upcoming scenarios, including a summer in which three key stars will need to be handed new deals to remove any potential uncertainty disrupting the next campaign. There is plenty to think about for the Reds during 2024 and Liverpool.com has given our verdict on what will ‘definitely’ happen.
Joël Matip and Thiago Alcântara contract decisions
Less than six months remain on the deals of Joël Matip and Thiago Alcântara and neither situation is straightforward. Thiago hasn’t played a single minute of competitive football this season but has been linked with a potential return in February. Given Liverpool is unlikely to want to hand him the same $254,000-per-week (£200k/€231k) salary due to his inactivity, he may even decide to leave with the prospect of offers in Saudi Arabia.
A new deal for Matip would make sense, though. Despite rumors of Steven Gerrard looking at him for Al-Ettifaq (via 90Min), he has shown his value this season. The performances of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté mean there is no requirement to find a new starting center-back, while Matip provides strong cover as well as an option in cup games.
Alexis Mac Allister moves into his more natural position when Wataru Endō returns
Alexis Mac Allister has had some bright games for Liverpool in his opening campaign, but it is clear that his skillset is better suited to playing in one of the more advanced positions. His ability to progress the ball forwards through both his passing and dribbling indicates that he could provide a strong option for Dominik Szoboszlai, and also an alternative in the role that Curtis Jones currently occupies.
And given the recent displays of Wataru Endō, there is no need to deploy the Argentina World Cup winner in his less natural position, with the Japan star looking like one of the more astute pieces of business from the summer transfer window.
