🔴 Slot’s Defensive Overhaul Advances as Liverpool Close in on Marc Guehi
Liverpool’s defensive rebuild under new head coach Arne Slot is accelerating, with the club reportedly closing in on a deal to sign Crystal Palace and England centre-back Marc Guehi, according to The Mirror.
Formal talks are expected within 24 hours as the Reds look to secure a long-term replacement for Jarell Quansah, who is nearing a move to Bayer Leverkusen. That transfer, which includes a £35 million package with a buy-back clause, clears a pathway for Guehi’s arrival.
💼 Fee Structure and Negotiation Stance
While Crystal Palace initially valued Guehi at £70 million, they now appear prepared to accept a fee exceeding £40 million, with Liverpool targeting a deal around £50 million — a price considered fair given Guehi’s contract has just one year remaining.
Effectively, Liverpool are investing an extra £15 million to trade Quansah’s potential for an already-established Premier League defender who satisfies homegrown player criteria.
🧠 Why Guehi Fits the Slot System
At 24, Guehi boasts:
- Top-flight experience (100+ Premier League appearances)
- England caps, including at Euro 2024
- Strong tactical understanding and passing range
- Leadership qualities, having captained Palace
Slot values ball-playing centre-backs who can push high and remain calm under pressure — traits Guehi has consistently shown. His presence would not only reinforce Liverpool’s back line but also provide rotation cover for the aging Virgil van Dijk and injury-prone Ibrahima Konaté.
🧩 Long-Term Value over Short-Term Flash
Liverpool’s recruitment strategy under Slot appears to emphasize structural sustainability over headline-grabbing signings. Guehi’s age, pedigree, and homegrown status tick all the boxes for a calculated, long-term addition.
With the financial offset from Quansah’s sale, this deal becomes even more sensible. If finalized, Guehi could evolve from a rotational figure to a mainstay at Anfield.
