Liverpool are weighing up a short-term loan option to cover Alexander Isak’s absence.
Liverpool’s bold summer transfer plans were headlined by the high-profile signing of Alexander Isak, a move intended to push the Reds back into Europe’s elite. Those ambitions, however, have been temporarily derailed after Isak picked up a serious injury against Tottenham Hotspur, prompting an immediate rethink of the club’s short-term strategy.
The setback has left Arne Slot without a recognised central striker at a critical point in the campaign. Although there is confidence around Isak’s medium-term recovery, Liverpool’s pressing priority is finding enough attacking threat to cope in his absence.
According to sources close to the agents’ circle speaking to CaughtOffside, several prominent forwards have been discussed internally. Ivan Toney and Dušan Vlahović are both highly rated by the club, but are seen more as long-term targets rather than realistic January solutions.
A more unexpected option being explored is a six-month loan for Paris Saint-Germain striker Gonçalo Ramos. Liverpool view Ramos as an ideal short-term fix, someone who could quickly adapt to Slot’s system, bring energy off the ball, and provide a sharp presence inside the box while Isak recovers.
The Reds have also weighed up more flexible attacking options. Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and PSG winger Bradley Barcola have both been mentioned as dynamic forwards capable of playing across the front line, rather than operating as out-and-out number nines.
Despite the issues up front, Liverpool’s top priority in January remains strengthening the defence. There is strong belief that a “gentleman’s agreement” is already in place for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guéhi, with plans to complete that move during the winter window.
In midfield, the club are also considering defensive-minded reinforcements to complement Ryan Gravenberch, with Carlos Baleba among the players under observation.
Overall, Liverpool’s January approach is well defined: bring in a dependable short-term striker to cover Isak, move decisively to secure Guéhi at the back, and ensure any business done does not disrupt the club’s long-term vision