Liverpool’s title defense has hit a rocky patch, with the Reds sitting in eighth place in the Premier League after a disappointing start to the 2025-26 season. With just 18 points from their opening 11 games, including five losses, Jurgen Klopp’s side finds itself eight points adrift of leaders Arsenal. But as the January transfer window approaches, there’s renewed hope at Anfield that a bold move could reignite their campaign and put the title race firmly back on.
The champions, who splashed a record £449 million in the summer primarily on attacking reinforcements, now face scrutiny over their defensive frailties. Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler has weighed in, urging Klopp to address two key positions: a defensive midfielder in the mold of former star Fabinho and a reliable center-half to provide cover for Virgil van Dijk.
“I do think we need a Fabinho type sitter in that park,” Fowler told Adventure Gamers. “As much as there are three fabulous players in there—Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch, and Dominik Szoboszlai—discipline would probably be the wrong phrase here ’cause I think they can do it. But you need that disciplined player to sort of sit there and try and control things. At times I think Liverpool have maybe been a bit too risky with the three midfielders going forward when it’s probably not on. I think they do need that little bit of stability in front of that back four.”
On the defensive line, Fowler highlighted the vulnerability if anything were to happen to van Dijk. “God forbid anything happens to Virgil van Dijk,” he warned. “If he gets injured then it puts them in a really worrying position. So I think they do need to go out and get that centre-half.”
Liverpool came close to signing Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace for £35 million on deadline day in September, but the deal fell through at the last minute. With Guehi’s contract expiring at the end of the season, Fowler believes the 25-year-old England international remains a prime target. “Obviously the link was Marc Guehi in the summer, and yes, I think he’ll be a name on everyone’s lips again. He’s genuinely a fantastic player, and if you’re a good player and you’re linked with Liverpool, then I’m happy with that.”
But here’s where things get shocking: sources indicate Liverpool are plotting an audacious double swoop from Crystal Palace, targeting not only Guehi but also his teammate, the highly rated midfielder Adam Wharton. The 21-year-old England under-21 star, valued at around £70 million, fits the “Fabinho type” profile perfectly with his composure, passing range, and defensive acumen. Initial talks have reportedly begun, but raiding Palace for two of their star players in one window would be “unthinkable” – a move that could decimate the Eagles’ squad while supercharging Liverpool’s.
This double raid on Selhurst Park would be a statement of intent from Klopp, whose high-pressing style demands stability in midfield and depth at the back. With a favorable run of fixtures ahead, including Saturday’s home clash against Nottingham Forest, a revitalized squad could quickly close the gap on Arsenal.
An alternative for the center-back role is Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck, the 25-year-old German whose contract has just over 18 months remaining and who reportedly has no interest in extending. But the Palace duo represents a more immediate, Premier League-proven option – albeit one that would require a staggering combined fee north of £100 million.
Klopp, ever the optimist, has remained defiant amid the slump. With the January window edging closer, this shocking double swoop could be the catalyst to turn the season around. The title race? It’s officially back on – if Liverpool pull off the unthinkable.
Do you agree with Fowler’s assessment? Would a Guehi-Wharton double deal save Liverpool’s season? Have your say in the comments below.