Liverpool Push Ahead in Pursuit of Marc Guehi as Konate’s Future Remains Uncertain

Liverpool’s defensive planning has stepped into a critical phase again, with Christian Falk’s latest reporting sharpening the focus on both immediate needs and long term structural ambition. His update has widened the conversation around Ibou Konate’s contract situation, but it is the assertion that Liverpool remain in front for Marc Guehi that stands out most strongly.

Konate Situation Shapes Transfer Priorities

Konate’s future has hovered in uncertainty for several months and now carries renewed urgency. According to Falk, the defender wants clarity over his long term standing at the club and is aware that Liverpool may consider a January departure if no agreement is reached. While away with France, he addressed the issue directly, confirming that “my agents are still discussing with Liverpool”.

It is no surprise that Bayern Munich feature heavily in this story. Falk reports that the German champions would “love to be able to add one of Konate or Guehi” as they prepare for the possible exits of Dayot Upamecano or Kim Min jae. That interest only complicates matters for Arne Slot, who has leaned on Konate more consistently this season as availability has improved.

Despite that, Slot attempted to cool speculation in his press conference, insisting that centre-back recruitment “is the last thing on my mind”, even while referencing internal midfield options who could cover if needed. This only highlights the delicate balance Liverpool face while trying to retain quality and plan proactively.

Guehi Emerges as Leading Target

Falk’s strongest claim centres on Marc Guehi, who he says remains Liverpool’s leading external option. His update notes that we are “in the lead” for the Crystal Palace captain, who wanted to join in the summer and progressed as far as the medical stage before the London club halted the move. Falk adds that Guehi is “heading in the direction of Liverpool”, which aligns with long term interest stretching back across several windows.

The England international’s profile fits the direction of the recruitment department, with leadership qualities, Premier League consistency and a peak age trajectory that matches the evolution of the defence under Slot. His suitability becomes even more important when you consider the current shortage of numbers. Departures for Jarell Quansah and Nat Phillips, combined with a serious injury for Giovanni Leoni, have left the squad exposed.

Squad Building and Strategic Timing

Liverpool’s decision making over the next six weeks could define the defensive unit for several seasons. If Konate does not commit to a new contract, the need for Guehi naturally increases, but even with Konate staying, adding another reliable centre-back would strengthen the balance of the squad. Slot’s title winning debut campaign relied heavily on consistency at the back and the current landscape shows how quickly that stability can be threatened.

Falk’s reporting has therefore placed the spotlight exactly where it belongs. The pathway for Guehi looks increasingly clear and Liverpool’s lead in the race appears firm at this stage, but contract clarity for Konate may be just as crucial in shaping the final decisions.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This report lands with a mixture of excitement and impatience. The Guehi links have simmered for a long time and if Christian Falk is confident that we remain ahead, that carries real weight. The fact that Guehi reached the medical stage in the summer also adds credibility and suggests that the groundwork is already in place. 

Konate’s situation is harder to swallow. There have been long spells where he has looked like the heir to Virgil van Dijk. Hearing him say publicly that “my agents are still discussing with Liverpool” keeps the door open, but it also raises concerns that the club may hesitate over the level and length of commitment required. Most fans would prefer the club to act decisively, either by securing his future or preparing properly for a sale rather than allowing uncertainty to run into the final year.