Arne Slot Drops Marc Guehi Transfer Hint as Liverpool Boss Rues Loss of 'Unbelievable' Signing

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has subtly hinted at renewed interest in Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi amid a turbulent 2025/26 season, while lamenting the failure to secure the defender last summer. The Reds, sitting fourth in the Premier League and 14 points behind leaders Arsenal after recent draws against Leeds United and Fulham, are grappling with defensive woes and mounting pressure on Slot.[1][2]

Slot's side has been hit hard by injuries to key centre-backs like Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias at rivals Manchester City—but Liverpool's own issues persist, with Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate underperforming, and absences of Giovanni Leoni and Joe Gomez exacerbating the crisis. A collapsed £35m deal for Guehi on summer 2025 deadline day left Slot short on options, a decision now haunting the club.[1][3][4]

Liverpool had planned to sign the England international on a free transfer when his contract expires in July 2026. However, Palace boss Oliver Glasner admitted he's "not naive," hinting a "massive offer" from Manchester City—potentially around £35m—could see Guehi depart this January window. Glasner noted financial pressures might override sporting needs, especially with Guehi's deal winding down.[1][2][4]

City's interest stems from their injury crisis, and sources indicate internal talks are advancing. Guehi reportedly prefers waiting for better opportunities, but a big bid could force his hand. Slot, facing criticism and calls for his sacking, shut down queries on Guehi but rued missing an "unbelievable" addition who could stabilize the backline. Liverpool may now need to act in January to hijack City's move, avoiding another transfer blow in a season where title hopes have faded.[1][2][5]

Off-field chaos, including Mohamed Salah's uncertain future, compounds the turmoil. Fans and pundits urge a return for Guehi, seen as vital amid sales of prospects like Jarell Quansah (£30m to Bayer Leverkusen) and Tyler Morton (£9m to Lyon), prioritizing profit over squad depth.[3]

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