Liverpool are reshaping their defensive line with a clear focus on youth, eyeing Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi and others.
The Reds have already spent close to 200 million pounds this summer, securing five new additions to bolster Arne Slot’s Premier League-winning squad, but their transfer activity shows no signs of slowing.
The club face a defensive dilemma after agreeing to sell Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen for 35 million pounds. Ibrahima Konate’s future also remains uncertain, with the French defender reportedly “disappointed” by Liverpool’s contract offer and considering running down his deal, set to expire in 2026, amid interest from Real Madrid.
“Ibrahima’s situation is a concern, and we can’t risk losing another key player for free,” a source close to the club said, referencing the recent departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid on a free transfer.
While Liverpool have been heavily linked with Guehi, transfer expert Ben Jacobs revealed on X that the Reds are unwilling to meet Palace’s 45-50 million pound valuation for the 24-year-old, who has just one year left on his contract. “Liverpool will only advance their interest in Marc Guehi if Crystal Palace’s asking price drops significantly,” Jacobs wrote.
“Price would need to be well south of this bracket. Hughes is primarily focused on the 18-22 age bracket for a centre-back”.
Guehi, however, has expressed openness to joining Liverpool, with reports indicating he has discussed a potential move with the club for a contract until 2030.
Instead of pursuing Guehi at an inflated price, Liverpool are targeting younger prospects. Ajax’s Jorrel Hato, aged 19, is among the names admired by Hughes, though Chelsea and Arsenal also share interest.
Dean Huijsen, Leny Yoro, and Levi Colwill have also been considered, with Jacobs noting that these players align with Liverpool’s preference for defenders with high potential who can develop into long-term assets.
In attack, Liverpool are preparing for life after Darwin Nunez, who is nearing a move to Napoli. The Reds have set a 70 million pound asking price for the Uruguayan striker, who has also attracted interest from Atletico Madrid and Saudi clubs.
To replace him, Slot has identified Newcastle’s Alexander Isak as his “dream” target, though the Swedish striker’s 150 million pound valuation poses a challenge.
Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike, valued at 85 million pounds, is a more attainable option, with Liverpool having held talks with his representatives. “Ekitike’s creativity and versatility make him a strong fit for Slot’s system,” a club insider noted.
In a bold move, Liverpool are reportedly considering including 19-year-old winger Ben Doak in a potential swap deal for Guehi. Doak, valued at 25 million pounds, impressed on loan at Middlesbrough last season, registering three goals and seven assists in 24 Championship appearances.
However, negotiations with Palace remain complex, and it’s uncertain whether they would accept such an offer.
As the transfer window progresses, Liverpool’s strategy is clear: invest in youth to build a squad capable of sustaining their title challenge. With Hughes leading the charge, the Reds are poised to make calculated moves to secure their defensive future while addressing their attacking needs.
