🔴 Liverpool’s Centre-Back Hunt: Guehi Talks Stall
- Marc Guehi remains Liverpool’s top centre-back target, but Crystal Palace’s £45–50M valuation has halted progress.
- Liverpool believe the fee is inflated, particularly with Guehi’s contract set to expire in 2026, meaning he could be bought for far less—or leave on a free—in 18 months.
- Guehi prefers Anfield over other suitors, but Palace are playing hardball, opening the door for Tottenham and Newcastle to swoop in.
- Arsenal, previously interested, have shifted focus to Cristhian Mosquera at Valencia.
🧠 Liverpool’s Back-Up Plan
- If a deal for Guehi collapses, Liverpool—under Richard Hughes—are expected to pivot to younger CBs aged 18–22.
- One standout option is Jorrel Hato (Ajax), a left-footed 18-year-old regarded as one of Europe’s most promising young defenders.
- This youth-first approach aligns with Arne Slot’s philosophy and Liverpool’s longer-term squad building.
🚨 What to Watch For
- Liverpool may wait to pressure Palace into lowering their valuation later in the window.
- Alternatively, they could fast-track Plan B, especially if another club secures Guehi.
- With Jarell Quansah’s move to Leverkusen nearly done, Liverpool will want reinforcements sorted before pre-season begins in earnest.
Would you like a mock-up of how Liverpool’s defense could look next season with or without Guehi?