Liverpool enter discussions for surprise Premier League signing just hours after victory over Newcastle
Liverpool have begun discussions over what could be their first signing of the January transfer window, just hours after their 4-1 victory over Newcastle. Hugo Ekitike scored twice to help ease some of the pressure on the squad and manager Arne Slot.
The win moves Liverpool into fifth place, ahead of Manchester United, though Michael Carrick’s side won’t play until later on Sunday against Fulham at Old Trafford. Fans have heavily criticized Liverpool for their lack of January activity, particularly in defence.
The Reds had targeted a centre-back as a priority last summer, agreeing a deal for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi on deadline day, only for the move to collapse. Slot’s options have been further limited by Giovanni Leoni’s ACL injury in September and Joe Gomez’s injury against Bournemouth last month. This leaves Liverpool with just Ibrahima Konate, captain Virgil van Dijk, and emergency option Wataru Endo available at centre-back.
According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Liverpool’s hierarchy has now approved the pursuit of a new central defender in the closing days of the window. With Guehi already joining Manchester City, the Reds are reportedly exploring a loan deal for Lutsharel Geertruida from RB Leipzig. The Netherlands international is currently on loan at Sunderland but has not featured in their last three matches. Sunderland are reportedly considering potential replacements for the 25-year-old, who can also operate as a right-back, left-back, or midfielder.
Geertruida’s versatility is a major factor in Liverpool’s late pursuit, with only two days left to complete the deal. Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie notes that, despite no break clause in his loan contract, Sunderland are expected to allow the move given the magnitude of the opportunity.
This season, Geertruida has made 17 Premier League appearances for Sunderland, mainly as a centre-back in a five-man defence, but occasionally in a back four. Previously linked with Arsenal in 2024 while at Feyenoord, he ultimately signed a five-year deal with RB Leipzig for €20 million. Last season, he made 35 appearances for the German club, facing a challenging campaign but showing glimpses of his potential, according to Leipzig’s statements at the time.