Liverpool have suffered their worst start to a Premier League season in a decade so far and unfortunately, the inconsistency in the team’s performance cost the side their progression in the Carabao Cup last night.

The Reds returned to action against Manchester City last night at the Etihad Stadium losing 3-2 which saw them crash out of the competition ahead of the quarter-finals.

However, Liverpool will have no time to rest on their laurels as their Premier League campaign resumes on Boxing Day when they visit Villa Park for their clash with Unai Emery’s Aston Villa.

Jurgen Klopp revealed some early team news ahead of the fixture claiming that Roberto Firmino has suffered a small injury, which has left the Liverpool forward line even further weakened.

Both Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota are out of action with long-term injuries over at least the next six weeks, leaving just Darwin Nunez and Mohammed Salah as the only natural forwards fit in the squad.

As a result, it may be worth exploring the transfer market when it reopens in the new year to bolster the attacking threat with Liverpool already linked to Ajax star Mohammed Kudus.

The Daily Mail have reported that the Reds are one of the clubs vying for the versatile attacking midfielder’s signature in 2023, and he could be just what Klopp needs to add depth.

Over 14 Eredivisie appearances this season so far, the versatile gem has scored five goals and completed 70% of his dribbles, as well as averaging 1.8 shots on goal and 2.6 duels won per game.

Not only that, the talented attacker ranks in the top 1% of his positional peers for pass completion and dribbles completed, as well as ranking in the top 5% for non-penalty goals, touches and progressive passes received, proving that he is one of the hottest prospects in Europe right now.

The Liverpool boss has already vocalised his admiration for the 22-year-old with Klopp hailing Kudus as “incredible” after he scored a stunning goal against his team in the Champions League.

Not only is Firmino currently injured but the Brazilian will also be out of contract at the end of the season, which could make way for Kudus to replace Liverpool’s number nine at Anfield.

Indeed, Kudus is not a number nine, however, Firmino is renowned for playing a much deeper false-nine role for the Reds and after the signing of Darwin Nunez, Klopp could replace Firmino with a player who can replicate the strengths he possesses in the deeper role instead.

With that being said, the signing of Kudus - who is likely to cost in excess of €40m (£35m) - could be a great piece of business for Liverpool especially if they can secure his signature in the new year, as adding depth in the more advanced positions could improve their performances in 2023.