Report: Liverpool could sanction exits for two players in January despite injury concerns
Despite Arne Slot’s squad being stretched thin, Liverpool could still sanction the departures of certain players during the January transfer window. According to Premier Injuries, the Reds may be without up to six players for their upcoming match against Wolves on Saturday, not counting Mo Salah (Africa Cup of Nations) and Dominik Szoboszlai (suspended). Long-term injuries to Giovanni Leoni and Alexander Isak have further depleted options in both defence and attack. Still, reliable sources suggest Liverpool might allow some players in these areas to leave next month.
The latest Transfer DealSheet from The Athletic, published on Boxing Day, lists two young Liverpool prospects as potential exits in January. Trent Kone-Doherty is considered an ideal candidate for a loan, with clubs continuing to monitor the 19-year-old winger’s progress. Similarly, Rhys Williams is expected to attract renewed interest after failing to secure a temporary move last summer. Even with a thin first-team squad over the festive period, it remains plausible that both players could be allowed to depart.
While Kone-Doherty could provide attacking depth off the bench, Liverpool may still approve a loan for the winger, who has made only two substitute appearances in domestic cup competitions. A spell at an EFL club could give him vital senior experience, provided he gets regular playing time rather than sitting on the bench.
For Williams, the centre-back shortage following Leoni’s ACL injury has not translated into opportunities under Slot. The 24-year-old hasn’t featured in a matchday squad since being an unused substitute in the Carabao Cup win over Southampton in September.
Williams was instrumental alongside Nat Williams in the 2020/21 season, helping Liverpool secure a remarkable Champions League spot, but he is clearly not in Slot’s current plans. A half-season loan to an EFL side could provide first-team experience, and a strong showing might pave the way for a permanent move once his Anfield contract expires next summer.
With limited opportunities in the second half of the season, both Kone-Doherty and Williams could realistically be loaned out in January to gain valuable minutes on the pitch in early 2026.