Liverpool could turn to Man City and Barcelona stars as Marc Guehi transfer alternatives
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Rival clubs are also aware of this, and foreign teams have the upper hand as they can negotiate pre-contract agreements six months earlier than Premier League sides.
It has been reported that despite the 25-year-old's eagerness to join the English champions, he is ready to change his mind and 'has his heart set' on a free transfer to Spanish heavyweights Real Madrid instead.
As Liverpool's Ibrahima Konate's contract is set to expire at the end of the season, the Reds find themselves in a tricky situation in their quest for defensive solidity.
They've been linked with Barcelona's Ronald Araujo and Tottenham Hotspur's Micky van de Ven, but signing either would likely require paying a premium.
Securing John Stones when his Manchester City contract runs out next summer could offer Arne Slot a highly experienced defensive option.
He's a six-time Premier League champion, a Champions League winner, and a regular in the England squad.
The move could echo James Milner's switch to Anfield in 2015 - the midfielder continued to serve Liverpool for several years after being let go by City.
Konate's contract needs to be renewed so he can remain at the club before this new addition comes in as backup?
There's also his previous ties to Everton to consider - it's rare for a player to represent both clubs in his career.
Eric Garcia represents another seasoned champion - boasting one Premier League triumph with City, two La Liga titles with Barcelona, and an Olympic Games gold medal - though he aligns more closely with the age bracket Liverpool were considering alongside Guehi.
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Who knows, maybe I could be a candidate for captaincy in the future."
Something of a surprise selection to conclude, as Slot might turn his attention back to the Bundesliga in search of an undiscovered talent - Diogo Leite.
The 26-year-old emerged through FC Porto's youth system before transferring to Union Berlin in 2022, contributing to the club's Champions League qualification during his debut campaign