Liverpool Urged to Swoop for 'Sensational' Premier League Defender in January

Liverpool FC have been strongly encouraged to make a bold move in the January 2026 transfer window for a "sensational" Premier League defender, amid defensive uncertainties at Anfield. Reports highlight Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace as the prime target, with the Reds urged to reignite their interest after a near-deal last summer.[1][2]

Despite splashing over £400 million last summer, Liverpool could return to the market following a testing season and questions over Mohamed Salah's long-term future, fueled by Saudi interest. Manager Arne Slot has quelled immediate Salah concerns, but the club eyes reinforcements in central defense, wingers, and midfield.[1]

Guehi, who underwent a medical with Liverpool on Deadline Day last year for £35 million, saw the deal collapse when Palace pulled out. Now, with his contract expiring in summer 2026, the Daily Mail reports Liverpool are prepared to wait for a free transfer, avoiding overpaying amid interest from Manchester City, Bayern Munich, and European clubs. This strategy aligns with caution over Ibrahima Konate's expiring deal, as Real Madrid circle, though Liverpool aim to retain him within their wage structure.[1][4]

Other defenders on Liverpool's radar include Palace teammate Maxence Lacroix, Joel Ordonez (Club Brugge), Oscar Mingueza (Celta Vigo), Nathan Collins (Brentford), and high-profile names like Alessandro Bastoni (Inter Milan, valued over £80 million) and Nico (unspecified).[1][2] Crystal Palace's Antoine Semenyo, with a £65 million release clause, is also monitored, though primarily as a winger.[1]

With the January window opening January 1, 2026, Liverpool face added pressure: from that date, Konate and Andy Robertson can negotiate pre-contracts abroad.[4] Experts urge a "swoop" for Guehi to bolster Slot's squad for a Premier League title push, praising his "sensational" performances in a shaky Palace defense.[1][2]

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