Liverpool Need to Sign Another Centre-Back Alongside Marc Guéhi – Here's Why

By Rousing The Kop Staff | January 13, 2026

Liverpool's defensive strategy faces scrutiny amid a troubling season where the Reds have conceded a league-worst 13 Premier League goals from set pieces, surpassed only by struggling West Ham United. Despite being the defending champions under Arne Slot, the backline's vulnerability highlights the urgent need for reinforcement beyond youth investments.[1]

The club has pivoted to stockpiling young centre-backs this January, confirming the £1 million ($1.3 million) signing of 18-year-old Senegalese left-footer Mor Talla Ndiaye from Amitié FC, owned by ex-Premier League striker Demba Ba. Standing at 6'2", Ndiaye joins Rob Page's Under-21s on a four-and-a-half-year deal, hailed as an inspirational talent by his academy.[1] Meanwhile, a deal for towering 17-year-old Austrian Ifeanyi Ndukwe from Austria Vienna is imminent at around £2.6 million, despite interest from Inter Milan. Ndukwe's summer arrival further bolsters the youth pipeline, with one signing now and another later.[1][2]

However, fans question this future-focused approach. After heavy summer spending, January remains quiet for senior targets. Marc Guéhi, Crystal Palace's England captain, remains a prime interest, but a mid-season move ahead of Arsenal and Manchester City seems unlikely. Should Guéhi stay until his contract expires in June, Liverpool could pursue him then.[1]

The article argues Liverpool must sign another experienced centre-back alongside Guéhi. Youth like Ndiaye and Ndukwe offer long-term promise, but immediate threats from set-piece frailties demand proven quality now. Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté anchor the line, yet injuries and form dips expose depth issues. A dual signing—Guéhi for leadership and another aerial specialist—would address set-piece woes, stabilize defense, and sustain title aspirations. Without it, Slot's side risks squandering their championship edge in a fiercely competitive race.[1]

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