Liverpool could still make an additional signing during Arne Slot’s first season in charge, despite the January transfer window having closed.
At 11 pm on Monday, the winter transfer window officially shut, meaning Premier League clubs can no longer complete permanent signings or loan deals until it reopens in June.
For Liverpool fans, the window was particularly frustrating, as the club was one of the few in the league that did not sign a single player in January. Under new manager Slot, the Reds have made just two signings, one of whom was immediately sent out on loan.
However, there remains a way for the Dutch manager to strengthen his squad before the summer if necessary.
Before the Premier League season begins, clubs must submit a squad list of up to 25 players for the campaign. While free agents can be signed outside the transfer window, they can only be registered if there is an available spot in the squad.
When Liverpool submitted their squad list in September, they named only 22 players, seemingly leaving room for future additions if required.
With that in mind, here are three free agents Liverpool could consider if they decide reinforcements are needed.
Joel Matip
Former Liverpool defender Joel Matip, once described by club legend Jürgen Klopp as one of the club’s “best-ever free transfers,” remains a fan favorite and could be a smart short-term solution if defensive reinforcements are needed.
Matip spent eight years at Anfield, playing a key role in the squad that won both the Premier League and Champions League. However, persistent injuries in recent seasons limited his playing time, ultimately leading to the expiration of his contract in the summer of 2024.
If Liverpool faces a defensive crisis, Matip’s familiarity with the club and experience could make him a valuable addition to see out what could be a highly successful season.
Sergio Ramos
This option seems highly unlikely given Ramos’ history with Liverpool players and fans, but it’s intriguing to consider how a prime partnership between Virgil van Dijk and Sergio Ramos might have looked.
At 38, Ramos is no longer at his peak, but after a season with boyhood club Sevilla, he has demonstrated he can still compete at a high level.
However, his infamous challenge on Mohamed Salah in the 2018 Champions League final, which forced the Egyptian off injured, makes it difficult to imagine him ever being welcomed at Anfield.
Layvin Kurzawa
Before the January transfer window, many Liverpool fans had hoped the club would target a new left-back.
Andrew Robertson has struggled at times this season, while backup Kostas Tsimikas has not done enough to secure a regular starting role. Despite links to players like Fulham’s Antonee Robinson and Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, Liverpool did not make a defensive signing in January.
If they still wish to strengthen in that position, their only option would be a free agent. While no available free agents would be automatic starters, former Paris Saint-Germain defender Layvin Kurzawa could provide useful cover.
The Frenchman made over 150 appearances for PSG, winning 20 trophies, and has some Premier League experience from his time with Fulham. If Slot wants additional depth at left-back, Kurzawa could be a viable short-term solution for the remainder of the season.
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