Marc Guehi Is Not the Only Premier League Centre-Back Bargain Liverpool Will Sign in 2026 - Opinion

Liverpool are poised to transform their defense in 2026 by targeting multiple Premier League centre-back bargains beyond Marc Guehi. With Ibrahima Konate entering the final six months of his Anfield contract, alongside Guehi's impending free agency from Crystal Palace, manager Arne Slot faces a defensive crisis. Liverpool's current squad boasts only four senior centre-backs, with injuries exacerbating depth issues[1][2].

Guehi, Crystal Palace's captain and England international, remains Liverpool's top target. A £35m deal collapsed on deadline day last summer during his medical, but the 25-year-old has informed Palace of his 2026 exit. Liverpool are pushing for a free transfer in summer, knowing Guehi's familiarity with their plans. However, Manchester City loom large, preparing a January bid below Palace's £35m valuation amid injuries to Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol. Arsenal and Bayern Munich are also circling, with Pep Guardiola's side potentially offering £25m for an immediate title-race boost[1][2][4][5][6]. Palace boss Oliver Glasner expects Guehi to stay until summer unless a massive offer arrives[1].

But Guehi isn't alone—Liverpool eye another Premier League gem as a cost-effective partner. Sources suggest Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite, a towering 23-year-old left-footed defender, could follow as a bargain. With Everton's financial woes and Branthwaite's contract expiring in 2026, a cut-price or free deal aligns perfectly. His Premier League pedigree, aerial dominance, and homegrown status mirror Guehi's appeal, addressing Liverpool's need for two new centre-backs amid Konate's likely departure[2]. Fabrizio Romano warns Liverpool must act decisively to beat rivals, emphasizing Guehi's fit but hinting at broader defensive reinforcements[2].

Rivals like Arsenal (strong depth with Saliba and Gabriel) rank lower for Guehi, while City's urgency underscores the race[3][4]. Liverpool's strategy prioritizes free agents for value, potentially landing a dream duo without splashing cash. This opinion piece argues Slot's rebuild hinges on these shrewd PL swoops, securing long-term stability at Anfield[1][5].

(Word count: 298)