Liverpool held agent talks but may not be able to afford to complete Joao Palhinha transfer

Liverpool want Joao Palhinha but they may not be able to afford the sum that Fulham are reportedly demanding.

Despite selling Fabinho in the summer, Jurgen Klopp's side has the best defensive record in the Premier League this season.

Yet, signing a natural defensive midfielder could take Liverpool to even greater heights given that Wataru Endo isn't a natural no.6.

However, despite holding talks with his agent, Joao Palhinha may not be heading to Anfield this month or even in the summer.

Speaking on BBC, journalist Mark Ogden says the Reds cannot afford the £50 million to £60 million fee that Fulham are demanding.

“I don’t think they have the money to do it,” Ogden said when asked about Liverpool signing Palhinha.

“I don’t think having made such a big investment in the squad in the summer they can go out and sign Palhinha.

"They signed four midfielders in the summer. Endo will be away at the Asian Cup, but I just don’t think Liverpool can get that deal done.”

This month presents the chance for Klopp to cement his side's credentials as the top side in the Premier League.

Not signing anyone doesn't mean they are certain to drop out of the top spot but there are very obvious flaws in the side that could be remedied with a transfer or two this month.

Let's see what develops.