Liverpool’s pursuit of Marc Guehi has stalled amid Crystal Palace’s hefty £50 million price tag, frustrating the Reds, especially given the defender has just one year left on his contract.
Sporting director Richard Hughes—who has already overseen the arrivals of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Armin Pecsi, and Freddie Woodman—is now exploring alternative defensive reinforcements. With Jarell Quansah finalizing a £35m move to Bayer Leverkusen and Ibrahima Konaté’s future uncertain due to Real Madrid’s £43m interest, Liverpool are preparing a fresh approach to rebuilding their backline.
According to journalist David Lynch, Liverpool have shifted their focus to two rising stars: Giovanni Leoni of Parma and Konstantinos Koulierakis of Wolfsburg, both seen as potential cornerstones of a dynamic, youthful defensive future.
Marc Guehi: A Deal in Jeopardy
Guehi, a 24-year-old England international, remains Arne Slot’s top defensive target. However, Palace’s valuation has proven too steep for Liverpool, who are reluctant to meet the £50m demand—especially as Guehi could be available for free next summer. Though the player is keen on a move to Anfield, the Reds are wary of being dragged into a drawn-out saga, similar to how Newcastle failed in their own pursuit of the defender. So far, Liverpool have only held informal talks with Guehi’s representatives and haven’t submitted an official bid.
If Palace maintain their tough stance, Liverpool are expected to pivot quickly to their backup plan—two young defenders with high ceilings and long-term potential.
The New Targets: Leoni and Koulierakis
Giovanni Leoni – Italy’s Next Defensive Star
At just 18, Leoni has emerged as one of Serie A’s top defensive prospects. After a standout season with Parma, where he made 17 appearances, he’s valued at £15.6 million. Known for his composure, tactical awareness, and ball-playing ability, Leoni fits seamlessly into Slot’s system, which prioritizes defenders comfortable in possession. He’s also capable of operating in a deep midfield role—adding even more tactical flexibility.
Konstantinos Koulierakis – Greece’s Rising Force
Koulierakis, 21, enjoyed a strong debut campaign with Wolfsburg after arriving from PAOK for £10m. He played 30 matches in the Bundesliga, impressing with his aerial ability, physical strength, and aggressive defending. Now valued at £21.6m, the Greek center-back appears ready to take the next step in his career, and Liverpool believe he could thrive in the Premier League’s fast-paced, physical environment.
Adapting to the Market: Youth Over Premium
Though Leoni and Koulierakis are the primary targets, Liverpool remain open to signing a more experienced defender if an attractive deal presents itself. Still, Hughes prefers a strategy centered on youth and long-term development. Together, Leoni and Koulierakis could cost significantly less than Guehi, giving Liverpool financial room to strengthen other areas of the squad.
Building a Fearsome Backline
Should the duo arrive at Anfield, Liverpool’s defense could be transformed. Leoni’s intelligence and finesse would pair well with Koulierakis’s strength and tenacity—creating a balanced partnership with the potential to dominate for years. Under the mentorship of Virgil van Dijk, both players could evolve into elite-level defenders.
Combined with attacking firepower from Wirtz and Frimpong, Liverpool are positioning themselves as serious title contenders under new manager Arne Slot.
Next Steps for the Reds
Liverpool’s immediate future hinges on whether Crystal Palace softens their stance on Guehi. If not, Hughes is expected to move quickly for Leoni and Koulierakis, viewing them not as fallback options, but as the foundation of a new defensive era. With the new season approaching fast, Liverpool’s smart and forward-thinking recruitment could prove to be the key to success both in England and across Europe.
