Liverpool’s January transfer strategy has taken a decisive shape: Giovanni Leoni is not going. The 19‑year‑old centre‑back, who joined from Parma in the summer of 2025, will remain at Anfield—despite growing interest from Juventus (and Inter Milan)—after the club made it clear they see him as a core part of their future rather than a loan candidate. This decision, while logical given his developmental stage, underscores a broader dilemma: Liverpool’s defensive structure has been reshaped by departures, and the winter window could be defined by attempts to add cover around Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez.
The backline context is structural. Ibrahima Konaté’s departure as a free agent in June 2026 leaves a gap at the heart of the defence, while Leoni is still working his way back from an ACL injury sustained in September 2025. Liverpool hope he can return to Premier League action during October 2026, with the plan to build his minutes gradually rather than throw him straight into a heavy workload. Even with his return, the depth of the squad’s issues mean Liverpool cannot afford to wait idly; the priority remains a centre‑back profile to provide immediate cover and, potentially, a right‑sided defender depending on availability.
Midfield is the next battleground. With the squad’s evolving profile under Andoni Iraola, Liverpool’s hierarchy have indicated they may need reinforcements if injuries or form dip over the winter. The club’s options are limited by financial constraints and the fact that their most desirable targets are already in demand across Europe. Federico Chiesa’s future remains uncertain, but his lack of regular minutes at Anfield suggests he may prioritise a move back to Italy if opportunities arise. Meanwhile, Curtis Jones—who has one year left on his contract—remains a key squad member, though any exit would depend on the right offer and replacement.
The winter window will also see departures. Younger fringe players may need a loan or permanent move to accelerate development, while senior squad members approaching the end of deals could be assessed for sales. The bigger question is whether Liverpool can afford to lose more key players. Alisson Becker’s long‑term status and Joe Gomez’s contract situation add to the uncertainty, while the club’s failure to sign another established centre‑back after Konaté means they may have to settle for younger, less proven alternatives. The message from Anfield is clear: Leoni stays, but the rest of the squad will have to adapt to a winter of careful management and targeted signings to avoid a defensive collapse.
