Liverpool have mapped out their 2026 transfer strategy with Arne Slot focusing on three areas and four players.
Liverpool may be reigning Premier League champions, but that hasn’t stopped Arne Slot from reshaping his squad in dramatic fashion. The Dutchman oversaw one of the most historic summer rebuilds in Anfield’s history, with no fewer than 19 senior players moving in or out of the club. Around £440m (€505m, $598m) was spent on new arrivals, offset by some high-profile departures.
Even with that level of business completed, Liverpool’s work is far from done. The next phase of Slot’s project will focus on bringing in a top-class midfielder, while also planning for the eventual succession of two icons — Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk.
Right now, Liverpool’s midfield trio of Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai is arguably one of the most balanced units in world football. Their energy, creativity, and tactical intelligence have set the standard across Europe.
However, depth remains a concern. Curtis Jones and Wataru Endo are the main options behind the starting three, and while both are trusted, the overall quality drop-off is clear. That’s why links to Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton refuse to go away.
Wharton and Baleba on Liverpool’s radar
Wharton, just 21 years old, has been described as “unflappable” by one respected former international manager. He has quickly established himself as one of the Premier League’s best young holding midfielders, with a maturity that belies his age. According to journalist Graeme Bailey, Liverpool are lining up a move for him in 2026.
Brighton’s Carlos Baleba is also being monitored closely. The 20-year-old remains on Manchester United’s radar, but reports suggest Liverpool may be ready to step in and complicate matters. Bailey noted that while Angelo Stiller has admirers at Anfield, Wharton and Baleba are considered higher-priority targets, despite commanding much bigger fees.
Dean Jones further confirmed Liverpool’s admiration for Baleba and hinted that United are growing concerned about the competition. Having tried to sign him in the summer, United still see him as central to their long-term rebuild. But with Liverpool’s financial strength and ambitious project under Slot, they may suddenly find themselves at risk of losing another key target.
The Reds have already shown a willingness to spend big when the right player becomes available. If they decide to move for Baleba, United could be forced into a bidding war that heavily favours their rivals. As one source put it, “no one wants to go head-to-head with Liverpool – on or off the pitch.”
Preparing for life after Salah and Van Dijk
Midfield is not the only area being considered for future strengthening. Salah and Van Dijk both signed extensions this summer to remain at Anfield until 2027, but at 33 and 34 respectively, planning for their successors is unavoidable.
Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi has emerged as Liverpool’s preferred choice to succeed Van Dijk. At 25, he has the right blend of Premier League experience and long-term potential, with reports suggesting a January move could even be on the table rather than waiting for a free transfer in the summer.
On the attacking front, Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise has been earmarked as a possible heir to Salah. The Frenchman enjoyed a sensational season in Germany, producing numbers that rivalled the Egyptian’s. However, any deal would require a record-breaking British transfer fee, which has sparked debate over whether Liverpool will go that far.
Elsewhere, Spanish reports claim Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is eyeing blockbuster moves for both Gravenberch and Mac Allister in 2026. While Jones confirmed Madrid’s interest in Mac Allister is genuine, he stressed that a departure is far from certain, given the Argentine’s strong commitment to Anfield.
Adding more intrigue, Luis Suarez is said to be playing an unlikely role in Liverpool’s transfer business. The Uruguayan legend has reportedly advised a Barcelona star to consider a switch to Anfield, though details remain under wraps.
Finally, Liverpool have received a significant boost in their pursuit of a powerful new signing, described as an “absolute tank,” after fresh reports suggested the player is eager to move to Merseyside above all other destinations. That determination could give the Reds a crucial advantage in sealing yet another marquee addition to Slot’s evolving dynasty.