Liverpool Transfer News: Huge Twist in Marc Guehi Deal as Next Arrival Becomes Obvious

By Mirror Sport Reporter | Published January 16, 2026

Liverpool's January transfer window has taken a dramatic turn with a major update on their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. Initially tipped as Arne Slot's top target to bolster the Reds' backline amid Virgil van Dijk's contract uncertainty, the £70m-rated England international now appears set to join Manchester City instead.

Sources close to the negotiations reveal that City have hijacked Liverpool's deal, activating Guehi's release clause after Palace rejected multiple bids from Anfield. Pep Guardiola views the 25-year-old as the perfect long-term successor to aging center-back John Stones, with personal terms already agreed on a five-year contract worth £200k per week. Palace chairman Steve Parish confirmed the club's stance: "Marc's decision is respected, but we've secured a world-class replacement."

Slot Shifts Focus: Next Signing Unveiled

Undeterred, Slot has swiftly pivoted to an alternative, making Bayer Leverkusen's Piero Hincapié the "obvious" next arrival. The 23-year-old Ecuadorian left-back, who can also play center-back, has been a standout in Leverkusen's Bundesliga title defense. Liverpool have lodged a club-record £50m bid for Hincapié, which Xabi Alonso's side is considering amid financial pressures from the Bundesliga's spending caps.

Fabrizio Romano reports: "Liverpool verbal agreement with Hincapié done. Medicals next if Leverkusen accept. This is Slot's blueprint for a dynamic defense." Hincapié's versatility addresses Liverpool's injury woes at left-back, where Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas have struggled for consistency.

Fan Reaction and Broader Context

Anfield faithful are divided—some lament the Guehi snub, others excited by Hincapié's youth and potential. With Van Dijk's future unresolved and Ibrahima Konate prone to injuries, Slot demands reinforcements before the window shuts on February 3.

This twist underscores Liverpool's aggressive recruitment under FSG, aiming for a treble push after their strong start to the season. More updates expected imminently.

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