Liverpool have been urged by club legend John Barnes not to pursue a high-profile January transfer for a reported £65 million attacker, despite talks reportedly taking place over a potential move.
The Anfield side are enduring a challenging season following their 2024/25 Premier League triumph under Arne Slot.
After a summer spending spree of nearly £450 million, Slot attempted to overhaul the squad, investing heavily in players such as striker Alexander Isak from Newcastle United and attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen.
Additional signings included Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, and Jeremie Frimpong, while departures included Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez.
The season has also been marred by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother in a car accident in Spain.
Liverpool’s Struggles and January Window Focus
Despite the significant summer investment, Liverpool have struggled in the Premier League, losing six games as the season reaches its midpoint.
Arsenal and Manchester City currently occupy the top two spots, while uncertainty continues over Mo Salah’s long-term future following his public frustrations after the 3-3 draw against Leeds United.
With a league title defense looking increasingly unlikely, attention is now on the upcoming January transfer window.
One of the players linked with a move is Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, who has impressed this season and reportedly has a release clause worth £65 million that could be activated next month.
Semenyo, 25, joined Bournemouth from Bristol City in January 2023 for £10 million, and a host of clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, and Tottenham, have been linked with him.
John Barnes Warns Against Another Attack Signing
Despite the speculation, Liverpool legend John Barnes believes adding Semenyo in January would be unnecessary. Speaking to the Daily Mirror, Barnes said:
*”January is not a time to sign players. If you look at what we already have, scoring goals and creating chances isn’t the problem. We have Gakpo, Isak, Wirtz, Mo, and Ngumoha. That’s more than enough.
“Of course, long-term, if he’s needed, that’s different, but January isn’t the time. The solution isn’t just signing players—we already spent £400 million this summer. Are we going to spend £65 million now, and then another £100 million if it doesn’t work? We have a strong squad.”
Barnes added:
“Semenyo is a good player, but there are other positions that need addressing first. If he comes to Liverpool, he would be welcomed, but we need to prioritise other areas.”
As Liverpool prepare for the remainder of the season, the January window will likely see careful discussions over squad reinforcements, with financial prudence and tactical needs under the microscope.
