Despite an ongoing injury crisis, a report claims two Liverpool stars could realistically exit in January.
Liverpool may still be open to allowing players to leave during the January transfer window, even though Arne Slot’s squad is currently stretched thin.
Data from Premier Injuries suggests the Reds could be missing up to six players through injury for Saturday’s clash with Wolves. That figure also excludes Mohamed Salah, who is away at the Africa Cup of Nations, and Dominik Szoboszlai, who is suspended. Extended absences for Giovanni Leoni and Alexander Isak have further reduced options in defence and attack, yet a reliable report indicates Liverpool could still approve departures in both areas next month.
Two Liverpool players linked with January moves
The Athletic’s Transfer DealSheet, released on Boxing Day, has identified two young Liverpool players as possible January exits. The report describes the winter window as a strong chance for 19-year-old winger Trent Kone-Doherty to head out on loan, with multiple clubs monitoring his development.
Centre-back Rhys Williams is also expected to generate renewed interest after failing to secure a temporary move away from Anfield over the summer.
Limited chances under Slot
Despite Liverpool’s lack of available first-team players over the busy festive schedule, it remains realistic that both players could be allowed to leave in January.
Kone-Doherty could theoretically offer cover in wide attacking areas, but the club may feel a loan move makes more sense given his limited involvement so far—just two substitute appearances in domestic cup competitions. A spell with an EFL side could provide valuable senior minutes, as long as he joins a team willing to play him regularly.
Williams, meanwhile, has been unable to force his way into Slot’s plans even with defensive options reduced following Leoni’s ACL injury. The 24-year-old hasn’t appeared in a matchday squad since being an unused substitute in the Carabao Cup victory over Southampton back in September.
Although he played a key role alongside Nat Phillips during Liverpool’s injury-hit 2020/21 campaign, it’s now clear that Williams is not part of the current manager’s long-term thinking. With his contract set to expire next summer, an EFL club could look to arrange a short-term loan, potentially paving the way for a permanent move from July if he impresses.
Given their lack of prospects for meaningful minutes in the second half of the season, both players could be sent out on loan in January and finally gain some much-needed first-team experience early in 2026.
