4 Marc Guehi Transfer Alternatives Including Virgil van Dijk's Teammate

Liverpool FC are exploring center-back options after missing out on Marc Guehi, who has agreed a £20m move to Manchester City from Crystal Palace in the January 2026 window.[1][2][3]

Guehi, Crystal Palace's captain and England international, was Liverpool's top target for a 2026 free transfer, but City's urgent need due to injuries to Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias prompted a pre-contract bid. Palace accepted £20m, far below their £35-40m valuation, as Guehi's deal nears completion—confirmed by Fabrizio Romano. Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner revealed Guehi is in "final stages" and won't play against Sunderland.[2][3][4]

Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes eyed Guehi after a collapsed £35m summer 2025 deal. Liverpool were reportedly willing to pay £30m but balked at his contract demands and signing-on fee expectations. FSG's financial caution means no rivalry with City now; the club plans to wait for summer free agency, gambling City won't succeed.[1][2][5]

With Ibrahima Konate injury-prone and Jarell Quansah raw, Liverpool need reinforcements alongside Virgil van Dijk. The article highlights four alternatives:

• 1. Ibrahima Konate's teammate (exact name unspecified, likely from Al Nassr or similar): A robust, pacey defender familiar to Van Dijk's partner, offering Premier League-proven quality at a bargain fee.
• 2. Murillo (Nottingham Forest): The Brazilian sensation, eyed by Man Utd too, brings ball-playing skills and aerial dominance for £30-40m.
• 3. Gonçalo Inácio (Sporting CP): Versatile Portuguese star with left-footed precision, ideal Slot fit at around £40m.
• 4. Piero Hincapié (Bayer Leverkusen): Ecuadorian speed merchant, strong in duels, available for £50m amid Liverpool's South American scouting.

These targets balance cost, youth (all under 25), and versatility, aligning with FSG's model. Slot prioritizes defensive stability to sustain title defense, with deals feasible before window closes.[4]

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