Liverpool’s 5 Best January Signings of All-Time – Ranked

A Winter Tradition of Transformation

Since the January transfer window was introduced in the 2002/03 season, Liverpool’s dealings in this challenging market have been a mixed bag. While there have been some infamous misfires, including Andy Carroll, Steven Caulker, and Ozan Kabak, the Reds have also struck gold with transformative signings.

Here are Liverpool’s five best January signings, players who made an indelible impact on the club’s modern era.

5. Luis Diaz

Luis Diaz epitomized the ideal January signing when he joined midway through the 2021/22 campaign. His electrifying displays revitalized Liverpool as they chased an unprecedented quadruple.

The Colombian contributed six goals and five assists in his first half-season, playing a key role in securing the domestic cup double. Despite injury setbacks in the 2022/23 season, Diaz has solidified himself as one of the world’s most dynamic wingers, combining relentless energy, breathtaking pace, and dazzling skills.

4. Daniel Sturridge

Daniel Sturridge’s time at Liverpool was bittersweet, defined by moments of brilliance tempered by persistent injuries. Signed for £12m from Chelsea in 2013, Sturridge delivered one of the finest individual seasons in Liverpool history during 2013/14, scoring 24 goals and providing seven assists as the Reds narrowly missed out on the Premier League title.

Known for his silky left foot and clinical finishing, Sturridge ended his Liverpool career with an impressive 67 goals in 160 appearances, despite his fitness struggles.

3. Philippe Coutinho

When Philippe Coutinho arrived for just £8.5m from Inter Milan in 2013, expectations were modest. However, the Brazilian playmaker quickly became one of Liverpool’s most cost-effective signings, earning a reputation for moments of sheer magic.

Coutinho’s knack for long-range screamers and defence-splitting passes made him a fan favorite. He consistently delivered double-digit goal contributions in all his full seasons at Anfield, and his £142m move to Barcelona in 2018 funded key acquisitions that propelled Liverpool to the pinnacle of European football.

2. Luis Suarez

Luis Suarez arrived at Anfield in January 2011 for £22.8m, overshadowed by the £35m acquisition of Andy Carroll on the same day. However, Suarez quickly emerged as one of the most gifted players in Liverpool’s history.

The Uruguayan striker combined breathtaking skill with relentless determination, often making the extraordinary look effortless. Despite controversies, Suarez’s brilliance was undeniable. He scored 82 goals and registered 29 assists in just 133 appearances, spearheading Liverpool’s title challenge in the 2013/14 season alongside Sturridge.

1. Virgil van Dijk

Virgil van Dijk stands as Liverpool’s most transformative January signing. Arriving for a then-record £75m in 2018, the Dutch centre-back silenced critics with his commanding debut—a match-winning goal in the Merseyside Derby.

Van Dijk’s impact was immediate and profound, anchoring a Liverpool defence that went on to win the Champions League and Premier League titles. Regarded as the world’s best defender during his peak, Van Dijk’s composure, leadership, and aerial dominance have cemented his place as one of Liverpool’s all-time greats.

Final Thoughts

From Diaz’s flair to Van Dijk’s defensive mastery, these January signings have left an enduring legacy at Anfield. While Liverpool has had its share of missteps in the winter market, these players remind fans of the transformative potential the window holds.