Liverpool Transfer Rumours: Why Kenny Dalglish Is Best Served Not Dealing

Liverpool currently sits sixth in the Premier League table, which would seem to make them prime contenders to seek out transfers to push themselves into a European spot. Manager Kenny Dalglish must tread carefully, however, as evidenced by a quote concerning Cheick Tiote.

Aaron Lavery of the Metro passed along the following thoughts from Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew on the Liverpool target:

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“We value him very highly here and I think, on my part, I expect him to stay.

“But that does not mean to say something might not come out of the fire. If he did go, it would have to be for a silly price.”

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Tiote is an intriguing option to be sure, but for the Magpies to be demanding a “silly price” sets a tone that will probably be repeated throughout the window. Every team is still battling for something, whether it be moving up the table, cup play or avoiding the relegation zone.

That will make cost-effective moves hard to come by in January. It also means Dalglish might be better off continuing to ride the horses that got him to this point instead of overpaying for an upgrade.

The Reds' most glaring need is offensive firepower. The acquisition of Andy Carroll hasn't worked out nearly as well as the Liverpool brass had hoped, as he's netted just two goals in 17 league games. He's actually been outplayed by veteran Craig Bellamy.

That said, Carroll was a long-term investment. There's been some talk about different possibilities with him, but Liverpool shouldn't give up on him quite yet. Despite his struggles, the potential is still there to become a consistent goal-scoring threat for the Reds.

Combined with Luis Suarez and Bellamy up top, they should have enough talent to make some noise in the season's second half. What they've received so far is basically the worst-case scenario, so it should get better moving forward.

It's also important to keep things in perspective. The Reds haven't dug themselves into a major hole. They are only five points behind third place even with the striking woes, so it's not like they need an extended winning streak to move up. Just moderate improvement from Carroll would do wonders.

Basically, it comes down to where Dalglish wants to place his chips. Is it a better bet to think Carroll will rebound in the final 19 games or opening up the checkbook for an outside influence and hope he is able to make a seamless transition?

Both choices present risks, of course, but giving Carroll a chance to prove he isn't a complete bust won't cost the extra cash. And, should he finally find a comfort zone, Dalglish comes off looking like a genius.

That's why Liverpool, barring an unexpected opportunity, should stand pat.