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Liverpool Eye Marc Guehi as Centre-Back Search Intensifies

Quansah exit prompts renewed focus on defence

With Jarell Quansah heading for Germany and Nathaniel Phillips to West Brom, Liverpool’s summer defensive reshuffle is well underway. It’s left a clear gap in the centre-back department and, crucially, extra funds to reinvest.

Photo: IMAGO

Guehi emerges as top candidate

Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace has emerged as a serious target. The 24-year-old is admired for his composure, aerial ability and leadership qualities that would complement Liverpool’s current defensive options.

Photo: IMAGO

Reports from Valentin Furlan and Rudy Galetti suggest a verbal agreement on personal terms is already close. However, the financials remain a key talking point. Palace’s reported £45 million valuation poses a dilemma.

With just 12 months left on Guehi’s deal in 2026, Liverpool must weigh up whether to move now or bide their time and negotiate a lower fee next summer.

Recruitment strategy remains calculated

Sporting director Richard Hughes has shown restraint so far in the window, operating with long-term vision. The next move will depend not only on budget but whether Guehi is viewed as a transformative or supplementary piece.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This is the sort of link that gets fans talking. Marc Guehi ticks nearly every box Liverpool supporters would want in a new centre-back: Premier League-proven, composed in possession, and still young enough to grow into a long-term starter.

There’s no panic in this approach, and that’s what’s refreshing. Quansah’s departure and Phillips’ move have naturally opened up a vacancy, but the club are not rushing in blindly. A fee of £45 million might seem steep now, but in the context of today’s market and Guehi’s England pedigree, it might look like value come October.

The fact personal terms are already said to be in place is significant. It suggests the player is keen and that Liverpool could move quickly if conditions align. With Arne Slot keen to build a squad with positional flexibility and mental resilience, Guehi feels like a natural fit.

This one might not happen tomorrow, but it definitely feels like it’s building. If the finances fall right, this could be one of the smartest defensive deals of the window.

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