Liverpool transfer updates: ‘New Bukayo Saka’ deal and $84m move for La Liga standout

Liverpool transfer news reveals the Reds may be targeting the ‘new Bukayo Saka’ and potentially eyeing a January move for a standout La Liga player.

With the January transfer window approaching, many Premier League clubs are considering signings, but Liverpool appears more focused on securing their current squad.

Under the leadership of Arne Slot, Liverpool sits atop both the Premier League and Champions League standings, positioning them for an unforgettable first season. However, off-field matters are less certain.

Ongoing speculation surrounds the futures of Virgil van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Mohamed Salah. Time is running out for these players to negotiate potential moves abroad, with Salah particularly vocal over the past week. The Egyptian forward is still awaiting an offer from Liverpool, and reports suggest the club may have already identified a long-term replacement for him.

Here’s the latest transfer news surrounding Liverpool, including the potential successor to Salah and a possible January acquisition from La Liga.

Momodou Sonko (Gent)
Liverpool is reportedly in talks to sign Gent forward Momodou Sonko, according to Football Insider. The Reds are said to be interested in adding young talent to their squad to build for the future.

The 19-year-old has drawn comparisons to Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka due to his playing style. As a left-footed right-winger, Sonko could potentially serve as a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah should he move to Anfield.

Liverpool.com comments: While we can’t claim to know much about Sonko at this point, being only 19, it seems unlikely he would replace Salah in the immediate future. Given his current play in the Belgian league, Liverpool might prefer to see him perform in a more competitive league before making a decision.

That said, the Saka comparisons make him intriguing, and he has made five appearances for Sweden’s U21s this year. He’s one to watch in the coming months.

Oihan Sancet (Athletic Bilbao)

Liverpool is reportedly ready to offer around $84 million (£66 million/€80 million) to sign Athletic Bilbao midfielder Oihan Sancet, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes. The 24-year-old has been in excellent form this season, scoring eight goals in 15 appearances, including seven in just 12 La Liga games.

The report suggests that Athletic Bilbao might find it difficult to reject such an offer, possibly paving the way for Liverpool to secure a deal in January.

Liverpool.com notes: If Liverpool were to make a signing in January, an attacking midfielder might not be a top priority, given the depth they already have in that position. The Reds may need to focus on other areas, especially with Ibrahima Konaté currently sidelined.

Nevertheless, Sancet remains an interesting option for the future, particularly if he continues to maintain his impressive form. More goals from midfield would bolster Liverpool’s attacking threat and could provide some compensation if Salah eventually departs.