Liverpool transfer news as the Reds are said to be eyeing up a $98 million midfielder while Arne Slot is also reportedly eyeing up a move for an ex-Man Utd starLiverpool.com has the latest on Joel OrdonezLiverpool.com has the latest on Joel Ordonez(Image: Getty Images)

The January transfer window has been open for almost a week, with Liverpool yet to make any significant advances in the market.

After a major spending push last summer, the Reds weren’t expected to strengthen their squad this month. However, with Arne Slot’s side beginning to feel the impact of injuries and squad fatigue, Liverpool is now poised to consider potential reinforcements to maintain momentum.

The club is reportedly monitoring a $94 million-rated midfielder, while Slot is also said to be considering adding a former Manchester United star to his squad, providing extra support for Hugo Ekitike and additional options across the frontline.

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Here is the Liverpool.com verdict on the latest transfer gossip to emerge around the Reds.

Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace)

Liverpool’s long-term midfield strategy is taking shape, with Adam Wharton emerging as a key target ahead of the summer transfer window. The 21-year-old Crystal Palace midfielder has attracted significant Premier League attention, with valuations placing his potential transfer fee around $94 million.

Wharton fits the profile Liverpool has prioritized in recent recruitment cycles: technically gifted, tactically versatile, and capable of developing into a cornerstone of the first team.

Adam Wharton of Crystal PalaceLiverpool is reportedly interested in Adam Wharton(Image: Crystal Pix/MB Media, Getty Images)

While no formal approach has yet been made, Liverpool’s interest is clear, with senior club officials reportedly monitoring his situation closely as preparations for the next transfer window accelerate.

Liverpool.com says: Liverpool’s reported interest in Adam Wharton makes a lot of sense from both a strategic and long-term perspective. At 21, he offers the kind of youthful dynamism and technical quality that fits perfectly with the Reds’ recent recruitment blueprint—players who can be developed into first-team mainstays rather than short-term fixes.

Memphis Depay (Corinthians)

According to reports from Bolavip, Liverpool is reportedly exploring a high-profile move for Corinthians striker Memphis Depay. Following initial expressions of interest, the Reds have reportedly been informed of the fee required to secure the 31-year-old forward.

Depay, renowned for his spells at Barcelona, Manchester United, and Lyon, made a surprising switch to Brazil’s Serie A in September 2024 and has since scored 19 goals for Corinthians.

Liverpool has reportedly expressed interest in Memphis DepayLiverpool has reportedly expressed interest in Memphis Depay(Image: Getty Images)

The Netherlands international, who has earned 108 caps and remains a key figure for the Oranje under captain Virgil van Dijk, is said to be under close observation by Liverpool as a potential replacement for Alexander Isak, providing additional attacking support alongside Ekitike.

Liverpool.com says: Liverpool’s reported interest in Depay is slightly unexpected, but it could make sense in the short term. His versatility and finishing ability could provide immediate support for Ekitike while covering for Isak’s absence. If handled wisely, Depay could be a smart stopgap solution, but he’s unlikely to be a long-term answer.

Joel Ordonez (Club Brugge)

Liverpool is not currently pursuing a move for Club Brugge center-back Joel Ordonez, despite reports. Claims emerging from Ecuador on New Year’s Day suggested the defender was close to completing a transfer to Anfield, but those reports now appear to be premature.

Recent suggestions had claimed Liverpool had fended off interest from Inter Milan and Chelsea, with the player allegedly persuaded by the club’s long-term sporting project.

While Ordonez has been monitored by Liverpool scouts in recent seasons, the club is currently exploring alternative targets in the market. Attention has shifted toward younger profiles and longer-term opportunities rather than an immediate move for the 21-year-old defender.

Liverpool.com says: While the 21-year-old center-back clearly has potential, the club appears focused on prioritizing younger profiles and longer-term development rather than making a rushed move.