Liverpool transfer news: January window plan revealed amid injury woes

Liverpool are 'alert to opportunities' ahead of the January transfer window, amid mounting injury concerns.

The Reds currently have seven first-team players unavailable for selection due to fitness issues.

Joel Matip is set to miss the rest of the 2023/24 season after suffering a ruptured ACL, while Andy Robertson won't return until some time in New Year as he recovers from shoulder surgery. Midfielders Thiago and Stefan Bajcetic are also long-term absentees, with the former yet to play a minute this season.

Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister have less serious issues but are not expected to feature for the Reds in the next couple of games at least, while Diogo Jota is still working his way back to fitness after suffering an injury in last month's 1-1 draw at Manchester City.

Jurgen Klopp has publicly played down Liverpool's chances of making signings next month when the transfer window re-opens, but the Daily Mail reports that the Reds are open to deals 'if the price is right'.

The report highlights a clear lack of depth in defence and at holding midfield. The club are, therefore, 'alert to opportunities' and keeping a particular eye on the Portuguese market.

It is added that the Liverpool hierarchy met last week to discuss their plans for the January transfer window.

The Mail claims that the Reds' plans could hinge on finding value in players at clubs who had fallen out of the Champions League, or failed to progress in Europe.

Regularly-linked defender Goncalo Inacio is name-checked – though his current club Sporting CP – sit top of the league in Portugal and have qualified for the preliminary knockout stage of the Europa League, which will not be played until after the January window is closed.

A separate report from Portugal claimed that Liverpool scouts were present as the defender – who has a release clause of around £52m – scored twice in his side's 3-0 win over Sturm Graz last Thursday.