Liverpool Transfer News: Reds in Defender Talks as Man City Transfer Plan Made Clear

Liverpool are reportedly in discussions for a new defender amid ongoing squad reinforcement needs under manager Arne Slot, while Manchester City's injury crisis has clarified their January transfer intentions for Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi[2][4].

The Reds' defense has been a priority after summer signing Giovanni Leoni suffered a season-ending ACL injury in September, and a last-minute deal for Guehi collapsed on deadline day[1]. With center-back vulnerabilities exposed, Liverpool are eyeing reinforcements, and Palace sources believe the Anfield club could return for the England international this window[2]. Guehi, whose contract expires at season's end, nearly joined Liverpool last summer for £35m and remains committed to Palace but open to offers below their previous asking price[2].

Complicating matters, Man City defender Josko Gvardiol's recent tibial fracture in a 1-1 draw with Chelsea has accelerated their plans[2]. City had targeted Guehi on a free transfer next summer but may now pursue him in January, prompting internal talks alongside recalling loanee Max Alleyne[2]. Interest in Guehi also comes from Bayern Munich and Barcelona, though Real Madrid's pursuit has cooled[2]. Liverpool face fresh competition from their rivals, who view the £64m-rated defender as a key target[3].

Elsewhere, Liverpool admire Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo as a potential replacement for Luis Díaz, who departed for Bayern Munich in July, but City are ahead in that race amid Mohamed Salah uncertainty[1]. Slot has affirmed no desire for Salah to leave, planning talks ahead of key fixtures[1].

Palace brace for bids on Guehi, with nothing formalized yet, as the January window heats up for Premier League title contenders[2][4]. Liverpool's hierarchy eyes backline boosts to sustain their challenge.

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