As the 2025/26 season unfolds, Liverpool’s squad weaknesses are becoming increasingly apparent, prompting the club to explore reinforcements ahead of the January transfer window.
FSG are reportedly taking decisive steps to strengthen the team’s attacking options. With a £75 million offer approved, they are reportedly keen on bringing back Sadio Mané, a player widely regarded as transformative for the team.
January Transfer Targets
Among Liverpool’s potential January targets, Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo has emerged as a priority. Triggering his £65 million release clause would be an attractive move, but he faces competition from Premier League rivals, including Manchester City and Tottenham.
Liverpool, however, are casting a wider net. According to reports from Caught Offside, Real Madrid have made Rodrygo available for around €85 million (£75 million), presenting an opportunity for the Reds. The Brazilian has struggled for form in Spain, and with his future increasingly uncertain, a move to England could offer a fresh start.
Why Rodrygo Appeals to Liverpool
Despite his recent dip in performance, Rodrygo is still recognized as one of football’s most talented forwards. Luka Modrić has even described him as a “world-class superstar.” While his numbers at Real Madrid have not lived up to expectations, his potential remains clear.
Cody Gakpo has provided consistent contributions on Liverpool’s left flank, but he does not replicate the explosive threat once offered by Mané. Rodrygo, who naturally favors the left wing, could restore that level of dynamism. FBref statistics highlight his attacking influence: he ranks in the top 14% for shot-creating actions, top 6% for progressive carries, and top 10% for successful take-ons per 90 minutes.
Versatility and Career Performance
Rodrygo is versatile, capable of playing across the forward line much like Mané once did. His career statistics by position illustrate his adaptability:
Right wing: 148 games — 34 goals, 31 assists
Left wing: 89 games — 23 goals, 18 assists
Centre-forward: 85 games — 22 goals, 8 assists
Attacking midfield: 4 games — 1 assist
(Data from Transfermarkt)
His ability to cut inside from the left as a right-footed player offers both creativity and direct attacking threat, qualities Liverpool have missed since Luis Díaz’s departure and Mané’s exit.
Potential Impact at Liverpool
Liverpool’s analytics team is known for spotting undervalued talent. Despite scoring just five league goals last season, Sofascore data indicates Rodrygo missed only one big chance, suggesting that consistent game time at Anfield could see his output rise significantly.
At the same age Mané was when he joined from Southampton, Rodrygo already boasts significant experience in elite European football. His mentality, versatility, and potential for match-winning contributions could be the catalyst Liverpool need to reinvigorate their attack. Should FSG move forward with a signing, Rodrygo could quickly establish himself as the club’s most impactful left winger since Mané’s prime
