Liverpool players are starting to arrive back on Merseyside after international duty with the Reds set to resume their Premier League title charge against Southampton this weekend
After a near two-week break, Liverpool are finally back in action this weekend.
The Reds take on struggling Southampton at St Mary’s on Sunday. A win could potentially see them extend their advantage at the top of the Premier League table to eight points.
Before that though, the club’s stars have been gathering back on Merseyside after a hectic international break. Boss Arne Slot will be hoping his players have returned unscathed.
The Dutchman also appears to be putting plans in place for the upcoming January transfer window that opens in just weeks time. Take a look at all of the latest headlines from Anfied:
Klopp ‘discussed’ Antony transfer
Manchester United flop Antony was suggested as a Mohamed Salah replacement by ex-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp. The Reds were looking for a potential successor to the Egyptian forward in 2022.
And according to The Times, Klopp ‘discussed’ then Ajax winger Antony as a potential option. In his defence, the Brazilian was in the middle of a stunning season in which he scored 12 goals and provided 10 assists.
In the end, Klopp was overruled by FSG chief Mike Gordon, who managed to convince Salah to sign a new deal. Antony then signed for United in a £86m deal but has not hit the heights expected of him at Old Trafford.
Who should Liverpool sign in January? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Liverpool eye Thuram
While Antony appears highly unlikely to become a Liverpool player, the same might not be said of Marcus Thuram. According to reports in Italy, the Reds are interested in a move for the Inter Milan star.
It is suggested by Gazzetta dello Sport that Liverpool have retained their interest having previously eyed Thuram under Klopp. The Frenchman has a €85m (£70m) release clause written into his deal – something Liverpool could take advantage of.
Much could depend on Salah’s future though. Thuram, 27, has eight goals and five assists for Inter so far this season.
Salah in line for armband
One thing that could tempt Salah into remaining with Liverpool is more responsibility – and he’s set to get that this weekend. The Egyptian could be handed the captain’s armband for the first time against Southampton.
Liverpool’s regular captain Virgil van Dijk is a doubt after withdrawing from the Netherlands squad. He is set to undergo further testing.
Salah is one of a number of candidates for the role. Trent Alexander-Arnold is Liverpool’s vice captain but it also a major doubt. Andrew Robertson is also a member of the Reds’ four-man leadership group.
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