Slot Reshaping Liverpool’s Defence with Guehi Move in Sight
Liverpool’s defensive rebuild under Arne Slot is gaining momentum, with reports from The Mirror suggesting the club is close to signing England international Marc Guehi. The Crystal Palace centre-back, a target for several top Premier League sides, appears to be on the verge of joining the Reds, with formal discussions between the parties expected within 24 hours.
This development coincides with Jarell Quansah’s nearing move to Bayer Leverkusen. While Liverpool are said to have included a buy-back clause in the Quansah deal, his departure opens space in the squad — one the club intends to fill with a player ready to contribute immediately.
Guehi Deal Seen as Strategic Investment
Crystal Palace are taking a realistic stance regarding Guehi’s future, aware that with just a year left on his contract, they are unlikely to secure their full £70 million valuation. However, they still expect a fee north of £40 million.
Liverpool reportedly view a transfer in the £50 million range as sensible business, especially if Quansah’s sale brings in up to £35 million including add-ons. Effectively, the club would be investing an additional £15 million to upgrade to a proven, Premier League-tested, homegrown centre-back.
Ideal Fit for Slot’s System
At 24, Guehi already brings leadership experience, having captained Crystal Palace, and he’s earned senior caps with England. Calm under pressure, confident on the ball, and tactically intelligent, he fits well into Slot’s system — which demands proactive, possession-oriented defenders.
Although likely to begin as a backup, Guehi is well-equipped to challenge Ibrahima Konaté for a regular starting role alongside Virgil van Dijk. With Van Dijk aging and Konaté prone to injuries, the added competition and depth would be timely.
Smart, Long-Term Business
In a market where inflated prices are the norm, Liverpool’s pursuit of Guehi reflects strategic foresight. His contractual situation, combined with Quansah’s exit, makes this the ideal moment to secure a high-quality English defender at a favorable price.
This wouldn’t be a flashy signing — but a structural one, designed to bolster depth, raise standards, and prepare for the future. With Slot steering the club into a new era, Liverpool’s transfer strategy looks increasingly calculated and cohesive.
Anfield Index View
The potential signing of Guehi makes perfect sense. He brings Premier League experience, satisfies the homegrown quota, and adds real competition at the back. At £50 million, it’s smart business — especially considering the offset from Quansah’s fee.
Guehi isn’t coming just to warm the bench. His ambition and quality suggest he could become a mainstay in Liverpool’s defence within months, particularly if injuries arise or rotations are needed. For Liverpool fans, this move checks every box: quality, age, mentality, and value.
If completed, Liverpool will have secured a cornerstone defender for years to come — a move more about progress than headlines.
