Liverpool's Defensive Crisis Sparks January Transfer Hunt
Liverpool manager Arne Slot is preparing for a crucial January transfer window as he seeks to address his team's defensive vulnerabilities, with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi emerging as a primary target. The Reds' disappointing start to the Premier League season, which has seen them concede 20 goals in just 12 matches, has intensified the need for defensive reinforcements.
European Giants Circle for Guehi Signature
The pursuit of the 25-year-old centre-back has become significantly more complicated since Liverpool's failed summer approach. While the Merseyside club saw a £35 million deadline day bid rejected in August, they now face competition from European powerhouses including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Inter Milan.
Guehi's contract situation adds another layer of complexity to the transfer saga. The defender has informed Crystal Palace he will not sign a new deal, meaning his current contract expires in June 2026. From January 1, overseas clubs can legally approach Guehi to discuss a pre-contract agreement that would see him join for free next summer.
This development gives foreign suitors a significant advantage, particularly Spanish clubs Real Madrid and Barcelona, who value Guehi's Ivorian passport which classifies him as an EU player in Spain. The financial appeal of a free transfer also means Guehi could command higher personal terms without a transfer fee involved.
January Decision Looms for Palace and Liverpool
Crystal Palace now face a difficult decision: accept a reduced fee for their captain in January or risk losing him for nothing in the summer. Despite his impending departure, Guehi has maintained professional conduct that has earned him continued respect from the Palace fanbase.
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has publicly endorsed his former club's pursuit of the England international. Speaking on The Overlap, Carragher emphasized the urgency of defensive recruitment: "Liverpool need to spend in January, they need to buy a centre-back, they should have bought a centre-back in the summer. Liverpool are probably one injury away at centre-back from really derailing the season."
The coming weeks will prove critical as Liverpool weigh whether to meet Palace's valuation for a January transfer or risk waiting until summer when competition will be even fiercer. With their defensive frailties exposed and their goal difference standing at minus two, the pressure is mounting on Arne Slot to secure quality reinforcements.
