Liverpool have identified a ‘key target’ for January transfer window – Report

Liverpool Weigh Up January Push for Ousmane Diomande Amid Konate Uncertainty

Liverpool’s defensive planning for 2026 appears to be well underway as doubts continue to grow over the future of Ibrahima Konate. His contract is set to expire in less than nine months and interest from Real Madrid refuses to go away. Until a renewal is secured, Anfield chiefs are right to explore successors.

Marc Guehi remains admired after a deadline day attempt was blocked by Crystal Palace, but with his name attracting widespread attention, Liverpool are sensibly lining up alternatives. That is where Ousmane Diomande enters the frame.

Sporting CP Star Emerges as Priority Target

Fichajes report that Liverpool are prepared to move in January for Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande. The 21-year-old is described as a ‘key target’ and a ‘long-term solution thanks to his technique, physical ability and quick adaptation to the pace of Europe’s elite’. He has also been labelled a ‘monster’ in Portugal for his imposing style.

Photo: IMAGO

Chelsea are monitoring developments, but internal confidence at Liverpool is said to be growing that Diomande fits the profile perfectly. Sporting will not sell cheaply and negotiations with Portuguese clubs are rarely straightforward, yet the timing of Konate’s contract impasse may tempt the club to be proactive rather than reactive.

Why Diomande Fits the Blueprint

Liverpool’s recent transfer strategy under Richard Hughes has prioritised players with tactical versatility, athleticism and maturity beyond their years. Diomande ticks each box. His recovery pace mirrors Konate’s best traits while his passing range allows him to step confidently into midfield during build-up phases.

Standing at 6ft 3in, he relishes physical duels but is equally comfortable defending large spaces. That blend is vital under Arne Slot who demands front-foot pressing, yet also relies on defenders capable of controlling transitions in isolation.

Planning Ahead Rather Than Scrambling Later

Liverpool have learned the value of long-term squad mapping. Losing a starting centre-back on a free transfer would represent poor business, especially one acquired for significant money. If renewal talks with Konate stall, a decisive stance in January could protect squad continuity.

The club have been criticised in previous cycles for waiting too long to replace ageing or unsettled players. Moving for Diomande early would reflect a shift towards more assertive succession planning. With multiple clubs circling, hesitation could be costly.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans will be keeping a close eye on this story. Konate is adored when fit, but his availability record has always been a question mark. If he is genuinely entertaining a move to Real Madrid, then replacing him with someone of Diomande’s profile makes complete sense. At 21 he has already shown leadership and authority in a competitive league and signing him before he explodes on the European stage could prove a masterstroke.

There is also the Slot factor. The Dutchman has shown he can elevate young talent and mould defenders into elite operators through system coaching. Diomande would be joining a settled dressing room fresh from winning the Premier League title. That is a far easier environment to thrive in than a struggling mid-table rebuild. Chelsea’s interest is irritating but not unexpected. However Liverpool can offer something they cannot at this moment, clarity of project and a manager who improves players. If Konate wants to stay and signs, excellent. If not, Diomande feels like the next logical evolution.