Liverpool submit formal offer for promising January addition

 

 

Liverpool proved last summer they are willing to spend, but focus has already shifted to the upcoming January transfer window.

The Reds have struggled to mount a convincing Premier League title defence, increasing the pressure on Arne Slot. Even so, after a difficult spell, Liverpool remain firmly in the hunt for a top-four finish and are well positioned to progress in the Champions League.

With the January window approaching, attention has turned to strengthening the squad to spark a strong finish to an underwhelming campaign. Despite the window not yet opening, Liverpool are already in talks over a defender who could become their first signing of 2026.

Sheffield-based outlet The Star reports that Liverpool and Manchester United have both submitted six-figure offers for Sheffield Wednesday’s highly rated 17-year-old defender, Yisa Alao. Neither bid has been accepted so far, but Wednesday’s ongoing financial uncertainty could pave the way for his departure.

Alao has not yet signed a professional contract, and Liverpool are reportedly keen to take advantage of the club’s off-field ownership issues to secure another promising young talent. The left-back has broken into Wednesday’s first team this season, making his Championship debut in last weekend’s 3–0 home defeat to Derby County, having previously been an unused substitute on 11 occasions.

He has also featured twice in the Carabao Cup, coming off the bench against Bolton in the first round and against Grimsby Town in the third round.

Liverpool have built a strong reputation for recruiting elite young English prospects in recent years, with players such as Harvey Elliott, Rio Ngumoha, Trey Nyoni and Amara Nallo all joining the club as teenagers. While Alao is unlikely to make an immediate first-team impact, Liverpool’s clear development pathway suggests it may not be long before his name is heard at Anfield on a matchday.