Liverpool transfer ruled out as surprise target hits out at rumors - 'It's not true'

Another reported Liverpool transfer target has ruled himself out of a move to Anfield in January, with the Reds also looking set to miss out on Antoine Semenyo's signature

Nilson Angulo has addressed rumors linking him with Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)

The January transfer window is still a couple of days away from opening, but Liverpool has already had another player rule themselves out of a move to Anfield.

The Reds have been linked with another foray into the market after spending big during the summer, with the likes of Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guehi touted for moves to Merseyside.

Despite a major overhaul of his squad just a few months ago, Arne Slot may well look to make more additions in the New Year, with his side currently struggling with injuries, with Alexander Isak and Joe Gomez having been ruled out recently.

Mohamed Salah’s absence during the Africa Cup of Nations also limits the options in attack, although one potential backup to the Egyptian has now ruled himself out of a move to Liverpool.

Nilson Angulo won’t be a name familiar to too many supporters, but the Anderlecht forward has seen his name linked with a move to Anfield in recent weeks.

Bola VIP reported last month that the Ecuador international was on the Reds’ radar, with a $12 million deal having been touted. Angulo has now spoken out about his future though, and has denied any knowledge of interest coming from Liverpool.

Nilson Angulo was linked with a move to Liverpool in November(Image: 2025 Isosport/MB Media)

Speaking to Belgian outlet Gazet van Antwerpen (via Tera Deportes), Angulo said: “I have seen articles about Celta Vigo and Liverpool.

“Until my agent says something, I know it’s not true. I am totally focused on Anderlecht. I want to give something back to this club for all the patience they have had with me.”

Angulo’s comments come as Liverpool looks set to miss out on another potential attacking target, with Semenyo looking set to join Manchester City.

Reports at the weekend had suggested that the Reds could make a late attempt to hijack the deal, with the Bournemouth star favoring a move to the Etihad Stadium and having reportedly agreed personal terms.

Those lingering hopes look to have been extinguished now though, with the Liverpool Echo claiming that sources at both Anfield and Bournemouth expect Semenyo to join City, with Pep Guardiola’s side looking to trigger his $88M ($65M) release clause as soon as possible.

The process for him to make the move to the Etihad is already said to be underway, and what’s more, sources at Bournemouth suggest Liverpool has “rarely featured” in discussions over Semenyo’s future.

Indeed, other reports are now suggesting it will just be a matter of time before City is confirmed as the player’s next destination, with talkSPORT among those claiming that the deal will be confirmed in the next couple of days.