Expert: Liverpool to block move for 'important' player who started vs Barnsley
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Liverpool Pull the Plug on Defender's Transfer After Huge Blow for Arne Slot
Liverpool FC have abruptly halted pursuit of a key defender transfer amid mounting defensive crisis under manager Arne Slot. The decision comes as a significant setback, exacerbated by long-term injuries to vital players like Conor Bradley, leaving Slot with critically limited options at center-back.
The Reds' backline is in disarray. With only three senior center-backs available—Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and the injury-prone Joe Gomez—Slot faces tough choices for upcoming fixtures, including the FA Cup third-round clash against Barnsley at Anfield. Van Dijk (34) and Konaté have injury concerns, while Gomez is now shifted to right-back due to Bradley's season-ending absence. Fringe options like Andy Robertson or Wataru Endo (currently injured) have been considered for central roles, but reliability is a major issue.[2][3]
Initial transfer targets have faltered. Liverpool eyed Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi as a long-term partner for Van Dijk, but Manchester City have surged ahead, reportedly securing a deal worth £62.5 million plus add-ons until 2031. This "huge blow" prompted Liverpool to pull the plug, reassessing amid competition.[2][4]
An alternative, Tottenham's Micky van de Ven, emerged as a Guehi backup for a potential 2026 move. The 24-year-old Dutch left-sided center-back has shone, starting 20 of Spurs' 21 Premier League games this season. However, his history of missing 36 top-flight matches over two prior seasons raises fitness red flags, especially with Van Dijk's contract expiring in 2026-27. Spurs are pushing for a contract extension, setting up a battle for Slot.[2]
Scouts have also monitored FC Midtjylland's 21-year-old Ousmane Diao, a composed right-footed defender versatile enough for right-back. With over 100 senior appearances, 10 set-piece goals, and strong passing range, he fits Liverpool's youth-focused profile. Yet, the club urges caution against panic buys, recalling flops like Ben Davies and Ozan Kabak.[3]
Despite a £446 million summer splurge—including Alexander Isak (£125m) and Florian Wirtz (£116m)—Liverpool sit fourth, 14 points behind Arsenal. Defensive reinforcements are imperative to sustain title defense and support Slot's vision.[1]
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