Liverpool Step Up Pursuit of Marc Guehi Amid Defensive Concerns
The transfer saga surrounding Marc Guehi has gained momentum after Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Liverpool remain locked in negotiations with Crystal Palace for the England international. Romanoโs involvement lends credibility to the story, suggesting talks have advanced beyond initial enquiries and reflect Liverpoolโs genuine intent.
The Redsโ pursuit of Guehi highlights growing concerns within the clubโs hierarchyโsporting director Richard Hughes and head coach Arne Slot are well aware of the thin defensive options available heading into the new campaign. Currently, Liverpool rely on just three senior centre-backs: Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konatรฉ, and Joe Gomez.
While Giovanni Leoniโs ยฃ26m arrival from Parma offered promise, the 18-year-oldโs inexperienceโonly 17 senior appearancesโmakes him a risky option in the short term. Expecting the teenager to immediately adapt to the demands of Premier League and Champions League football could prove a gamble.
Konatรฉโs uncertain future only adds to the urgency. With his contract expiring in 2026, Real Madrid are reportedly prepared to lure him with an โฌ18m signing bonus should he leave on a free. If Liverpool cannot secure his long-term commitment, they risk losing a cornerstone of their defence without compensation.
Guehi, 24, represents a logical solution. As Crystal Palace captain and an England regular, he combines leadership, composure, and proven Premier League experience. His contractโalso expiring in 2026โputs Palace in a similar dilemma to Liverpool: sell now or risk losing him for nothing later.
From a tactical standpoint, Guehi would suit Slotโs system. His pace, ball-playing ability, and organisational skills align with Liverpoolโs high defensive line. Importantly, his arrival would also ease the pressure on younger players like Leoni and provide rotation options to keep van Dijk and Konatรฉ fresh across a gruelling season.
Liverpoolโs need was underlined in their recent clash with Bournemouth, where defensive lapses from van Dijk and Konatรฉ highlighted the dangers of relying on too few options. The modern game demands depth, and top clubs typically carry at least four top-level centre-backs to cope with injuries, suspensions, and fatigue.
Financially, Liverpool are expected to tread carefully. While Guehiโs price tag will be significant, Palaceโs limited leverage due to his contract situation may help bring costs into a negotiable range. Still, with rival clubs also searching for defensive reinforcements, competition could push the fee higher.
Long-term, Guehi fits the profile Liverpool are targeting: a player entering his prime years, capable of anchoring the defence for seasons to come. His leadership qualities and experience would also help mentor younger defenders, raising standards across the squad.
For Crystal Palace, a transfer would deliver a substantial fee to reinvest in their squad. For Liverpool, it would provide immediate security and long-term stability in a position of critical importance.
The ongoing negotiations reflect more than opportunismโthey represent a strategic necessity. Whether or not a deal is struck before the window closes, Liverpoolโs pursuit of Guehi signals both ambition and pragmatism as they prepare for a demanding season ahead.
