Liverpool Transfer News: Guehi Deal Collapses, New Targets Emerge

Liverpool FC have shifted focus to alternative center-back targets after missing out on Marc Guehi, who is now set to join Manchester City in a £20m deal with Crystal Palace.

Last summer, the Reds nearly secured Guehi for £35m on deadline day, but Palace vetoed the move without a replacement. Four months later, Palace accepted City's lower bid, leaving Liverpool to pivot amid defensive needs under Arne Slot.[1][2]

Top of the wishlist is Borussia Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck, available for around £50m (€58m). Reports indicate Liverpool are confident of a deal, with Real Madrid out of the race. German insider Christian Falk revealed Bayern Munich have cooled interest, boosting Anfield hopes. Schlotterbeck, a 6ft 3in Germany international, craves titles Dortmund can't deliver, making a Premier League switch appealing—especially with his family's Bayern ties now irrelevant.[1][2]

Another prime candidate is Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni, 26, hailed as world-class. Sources confirm he's open to a move abroad despite contentment in Italy. A Liverpool source told TEAMtalk he's at his peak, with few defenders matching him. Inter may resist, but his ambition could force a summer transfer.[1][4]

Additional rumors swirl around a £40m Ecuadorian prospect from Belgium, though City lurk, and a "massive offer" for a second target post-Guehi.[1][3] Former Liverpool stars also warn Slot of Xabi Alonso's free-agent status tempting squad unrest.

With January 2026 underway, Liverpool aim to bolster defense swiftly. No medicals are scheduled today, but momentum builds for transformative signings to chase silverware.[1][2]

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