Liverpool Set to Accelerate Pursuit of ‘World-Class’ Defender Marc Guehi Ahead of January Window
Liverpool are reportedly preparing to step up their pursuit of England international Marc Guehi as concerns grow over their defensive stability under new manager Arne Slot.
Despite a convincing 5–1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League on October 22, questions remain about the Reds’ recent domestic form after suffering four straight defeats to Crystal Palace, Galatasaray, Chelsea, and Manchester United.
During this difficult spell, Liverpool’s defense — long considered the backbone of their success — has looked increasingly vulnerable. Neither Virgil van Dijk nor Ibrahima Konaté has been at their best, and the team has now gone eight consecutive games without a clean sheet, managing just two shutouts across 13 fixtures in all competitions.
According to Football Insider, Liverpool are expected to renew their efforts to sign Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi in January, having narrowly missed out on a deal during the summer deadline despite previously reaching an agreement with Palace.
Former Manchester United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains well connected within Premier League circles, told the outlet that Guehi remains Liverpool’s top defensive target.
“Liverpool don’t look as solid at the back as they did last season,” Brown explained. “Van Dijk’s form has dipped, and there are still doubts about Konaté’s long-term future.
“They came close to signing Guehi in the summer, and now even more clubs — including Real Madrid and Bayern Munich — are showing interest. He’s the starting centre-back for England, and at £35 million or less, he’s exceptional value for a player of his quality.
“Liverpool will be desperate to get this done quickly. He’s the best available option right now.”
Guehi, whom England teammate Ezri Konsa previously described as “world-class” (BBC, 2024), remains one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders.
However, Football Insider also reports that the 23-year-old intends to see out the season with Crystal Palace, having turned down a new contract offer but choosing to honor his current deal. Guehi is said to be fully focused on helping Palace in both the Premier League and Europe, while also aiming to secure his place in England’s squad for next summer’s World Cup.
Although a January transfer remains possible — potentially allowing Palace to cash in before his contract expires — sources suggest a free move at the end of the season is currently viewed as the most likely outcome.
For Liverpool, the urgency is clear: with defensive frailties threatening to derail their campaign, a January move for Guehi could prove decisive in strengthening Slot’s back line for the remainder of the season.
