The January transfer window is now open, with Liverpool continuing to be linked with a host of big names.

Jurgen Klopp has been forced to contend with a crippling injury crisis during the first half of the season, leading to speculation that the Premier League champions could move for a new defender this month.

Here, Sports Mole rounds up the latest news on possible comings and goings from Anfield.

Sunday morning's Liverpool transfer talk news roundup:

Manchester United 'leading race for Boubakary Soumare'

Manchester United are reportedly "the favourites" to sign Lille midfielder Boubakary Soumare.

The 21-year-old has been linked with a move away from his French club over the last 12 months, with United, Liverpool and AC Milan all believed to be interested in his services.

Soumare has been a key player for Lille during the 2020-21 campaign, making 21 appearances in all competitions, but the speculation surrounding his future continues to gather pace.

According to Italian journalist Vito Angele, the 20-time English champions are leading the race to sign the Frenchman, potentially at the end of the season.

"He is an important player but I don't think he will be coming to Serie A," Angele told The Italian Football Podcast. "Man Utd are working on him and they are the favourites to sign him right now. Lille are also asking a high price for him which is too much for Milan."

Soumare's existing deal at Stade Pierre-Mauroy is due to expire in June 2022.

Liverpool join Chelsea in Mohamed Simakan race?

Liverpool are reportedly monitoring any developments regarding the future of Strasbourg defender Mohamed Simakan.

Despite having to deal with long-term injuries to Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez, manager Jurgen Klopp has hinted that he will opt against adding a new centre-back to his squad in January.

However, according to Telefoot, the Merseyside giants are contemplating whether to make a bid for in-demand youngster Simakan.

The 20-year-old has already established himself as a key man at Strasbourg, making a total of 18 starts in Ligue 1 during the current campaign.

Chelsea have been linked with a future approach for the prospect, while AC Milan and RB Leipzig are said to be showing the strongest interest.

Simakan has two-and-a-half years remaining on his Strasbourg contract.

More transfer news from Liverpool:

Chelsea 'want to sign Dayot Upamecano this summer'
Chelsea want to sign RB Leipzig centre-back Dayot Upamecano during this summer's transfer window, according to a report. Read more.

Liverpool 'have priorities ahead of new Mohamed Salah deal'
Liverpool do not view signing Mohamed Salah up to a new contract as an immediate priority, according to a report. Read more.

Manchester United, Liverpool 'receive Dayot Upamecano boost'
RB Leipzig CEO Oliver Mintzlaff opens the door for Dayot Upamecano, who has been linked with Liverpool and Manchester United, to leave the club. Read more.