Anfield Index
·16 February 2026
Liverpool are ‘in the mix’ to sign midfielder in potential £25m move

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Yahoo sportsAnfield Index
·16 February 2026

Liverpool’s midfield planning continues to gather pace ahead of the summer window, with fresh discussion around emerging talent and possible outgoings. With uncertainty surrounding the futures of Curtis Jones and Alexis Mac Allister, recruitment staff appear to be widening their search, identifying profiles that suit Arne Slot’s evolving system.
Speaking on Anfield Index’s ‘Transfer Show’ podcast, Dave Davis shared insight into Liverpool’s interest in FC Nordsjaelland midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi, a player who is rapidly climbing the club’s shortlist.
Dave Davis explained: “Liverpool have watched him a few times now and he had a great game against Copenhagen this weekend.” The growing attention reflects Liverpool’s ongoing focus on younger midfield options who combine technical ability with athleticism. Recruitment sources suggest the club’s data driven model has flagged Yirenkyi as an intriguing option, especially as Slot looks to balance intensity with control in the centre of the pitch.
Davis added further context, saying: “They had a serious ask about Yirenkyi in January and they are still in the mix for a move in the summer.” That level of engagement hints at groundwork being laid well in advance, a strategy Liverpool have followed successfully in previous windows.
Liverpool’s recruitment team are rarely focused on a single name. As Davis noted: “We’ve mentioned before that Brighton’s Carlos Baleba is also being watched, but he has really struggled this season.” Monitoring multiple profiles allows flexibility, particularly with Champions League qualification still shaping the club’s financial planning.
From a tactical perspective, Yirenkyi’s mobility and positional discipline could align with Slot’s preference for midfielders who can transition quickly between defensive and attacking phases. Liverpool’s interest in players of this mould suggests a desire to maintain intensity while refreshing depth.
Perhaps the most telling detail from the podcast centred on analytics. Davis revealed: “We’re also told that because of how Yirenkyi is performing and the numbers behind his performances, he has jumped ahead of a lot of candidates.” Liverpool’s recruitment department has increasingly leaned on performance metrics, particularly when assessing younger players in smaller European leagues.
The reported valuation also appears to fit Liverpool’s risk profile. As Davis said: “His price tag, expected to be around £25-30m, makes it a fairly low-risk move. He would be the perfect Wataru Endo replacement.” That assessment highlights how the club may be planning for succession in key squad roles, ensuring continuity without significant disruption.

Photo: IMAGO
While interest is clear, the wider context remains important. Davis concluded: “Of course, nothing is guaranteed and a lot of it depends on Liverpool securing Champions League football. So we will see what develops from this one.” Qualification could influence both spending power and player appeal, shaping the direction of Liverpool’s summer strategy.
For now, Yirenkyi represents another example of Liverpool identifying emerging talent early. With Slot guiding a squad still adapting to his ideas, recruitment choices over the coming months will reveal how the club balances youth, experience and tactical flexibility.









































