Liverpool's approach to the January transfer window is becoming clearer, with significant updates emerging on two of their key defensive targets, Marc Guehi and Nico Schlotterbeck.
The Reds have been linked with a move for a new centre-back throughout the current campaign. Their defensive ranks have been stretched thin, with Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate standing as the only fully fit, natural options for much of the season. Long-term absentee Giovanni Leoni and the versatile Joe Gomez, who has been deployed at right-back, have compounded the issue.
Arne Slot's Clear Stance on Marc Guehi Transfer
While a move for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi seemed a logical solution, Liverpool manager Arne Slot has publicly poured cold water on immediate transfer speculation. When questioned, Slot maintained his usual discretion.
"I never talk about transfers in public, let alone talking about a transfer from another club," Slot stated. "My answer is always the same. I am really happy with the squad we have. All the decisions made last summer and the summer before are completely aligned with me, Richard [Hughes] and the ownership. This season has shown how talented this group is and if everyone is available how good a team we can be."
This public declaration suggests a January move for the England international is highly improbable, aligning with comments from Guehi's current manager.
Crystal Palace's Position on a Potential Guehi Sale
Prior to Slot's remarks, Crystal Palace head coach Oliver Glasner had already addressed the intense speculation surrounding his star defender, who is also admired by Manchester City. Glasner presented a pragmatic view of the situation.
"I'm not naive. If a massive offer comes from City and Marc wants to do it, it will happen," Glasner admitted. He emphasised that from a purely sporting perspective, the club wants Guehi to stay, but acknowledged financial realities could override that.
"There will be a threshold where the club has to say it will happen - as long as Marc says 'I want to leave', because the final decision is always with the player," he concluded. With Palace facing their own defensive injury crisis, any mid-season sale would command a colossal fee.
Liverpool Receive Nico Schlotterbeck Transfer Boost
As one door appears to close, another may be opening. Liverpool have received a significant boost in their reported interest in Borussia Dortmund's German international, Nico Schlotterbeck.
According to reports from German publication Bild, Bayern Munich are now unlikely to pursue the 26-year-old, as they are close to securing a new contract for defender Dayot Upamecano. This removes a major domestic rival from the equation for Schlotterbeck's signature.
The left-footed centre-back, also linked with Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid, has an uncertain future at Dortmund. His current contract expires in the summer of 2027, and despite talks, an extension is not guaranteed. Schlotterbeck has been a regular this season, making 18 appearances across all competitions and contributing a goal and two assists.
The developments indicate that while a January defensive reinforcement for Liverpool is a topic of fervent discussion, a major move for Guehi seems off the table. However, the landscape for a potential future deal for an alternative like Nico Schlotterbeck may have just become more favourable.
