Liverpool's January transfer plans have been thrown into disarray following a significant development in their long-running pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi.
Manchester City Hijack Guehi Move
In a major twist, Premier League rivals Manchester City have reportedly submitted a contract proposal to Marc Guehi, according to fresh rumours. The England international, whose deal at Selhurst Park expires in the summer, was the subject of a £35 million agreement between Liverpool and Palace on deadline day in September 2025, only for the Eagles to pull out at the last minute.
The collapse was attributed to Palace's failure to secure a replacement in time and reported opposition from then-manager Oliver Glasner. Now, with City facing their own defensive injury crisis, they are said to have upped their interest and tabled a bid believed to be around £30 million. This would mark the second time this month the Citizens have beaten Liverpool to a target, following their acquisition of Antoine Semenyo.
Liverpool's Defensive Dilemma Deepens
The potential loss of Guehi compounds a severe injury crisis for manager Arne Slot. The Reds have recently confirmed that Conor Bradley will miss the rest of the season, adding to long-term absences for Alexander Isak and Geovani Leoni. The squad has also endured lengthy spells without Jeremie Frimpong and Joe Gomez this campaign.
Speaking ahead of the clash with Burnley, Slot acknowledged the challenges, stating: "Everyone is aligned about the challenges we face... That is not to say we are going to act but we are all aligned." The situation is further pressured by Ibrahima Konate's contract expiring in the summer of 2026, making defensive reinforcements a critical priority.
Identifying the Next Anfield Arrival
With Guehi seemingly bound for the Etihad, Liverpool's recruitment team is forced to look elsewhere. One standout candidate is Tottenham Hotspur's Micky van de Ven. The 24-year-old Dutch centre-half has established himself as one of the Premier League's top defenders since his 2023 move from Wolfsburg.
Van de Ven offers Premier League experience, blistering pace, and versatility to cover at left-back. Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor has publicly advised the player to seek a move to a "bigger club," suggesting Spurs cannot hold onto him. However, a deal would likely command a fee in the region of £65 million.
Another option under consideration is Borussia Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck. The 26-year-old German defender, whose contract runs until 2027, has not yet committed his future to Dortmund. With 144 appearances, eight goals, and 18 assists for the club, he presents an experienced alternative.
Dortmund's sporting director Sebastian Kehl admitted: "We will continue to talk... It's clear that we want to continue. But no decision has been made yet." Liverpool may be encouraged by reports from German outlet BILD that long-term admirers Bayern Munich are no longer in the race for his signature.
The coming weeks will be crucial for Liverpool as they navigate a complex transfer market to address a defensive unit under severe strain.
