Liverpool are progressing rapidly through the summer transfer window, making signings that feel like fitting additions for a team aiming for the Premier League title. This activity is crucial, as their domestic rivals are also making significant moves to strengthen their squads for the upcoming season.
Despite already securing additions like two full-backs and Florian Wirtz for a British record £116m, FSG (Fenway Sports Group) are not expected to slow down. The club is in a strong financial position, built up over recent transfer windows and boosted by securing the league title. This provides the flexibility for further investment. So, where might FSG look to strengthen next?
Where Liverpool are planning to strengthen
There`s considerable speculation around Liverpool`s search for a new centre-forward. However, with reports linking Luis Diaz to Bayern Munich, the club might also bring in a left-sided winger this month. The familiar rumours connecting Liverpool to Anthony Gordon have reappeared.
Following a period of intense transfer activity, Liverpool can now perhaps afford to be more opportunistic. Nevertheless, there`s still a clear need for a central defender. This is highlighted by Jarell Quansah`s impending £35m transfer to Bayer Leverkusen and the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Ibrahima Konate`s contract situation. Liverpool did try to sign Dean Huijsen, but that potential move is no longer an option.
While Huijsen may have joined Real Madrid, Liverpool`s continued interest shows their commitment to recruiting a new centre-back. According to reports, Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi is firmly on Richard Hughes` radar.
Liverpool agree personal terms for Premier League star
Journalist DaveOCKOP reported that Liverpool have successfully agreed personal terms with Crystal Palace`s defender, Marc Guehi. With Guehi`s contract set to expire at the end of the 2025/26 season, Liverpool sees a market opportunity they are keen to exploit, a fact confirmed by Fabrizio Romano. Discussions between the two clubs regarding a transfer fee are reportedly scheduled for this week.
Liverpool`s current valuation differs from Palace`s, making the outcome of these upcoming talks crucial. The Reds are reportedly hoping to finalize a deal for around £30 million.
Why Liverpool want natural leader Marc Guehi
Given the significant changes occurring at Liverpool this summer, securing a seasoned Premier League player like Guehi would be highly beneficial. His experience in the English top flight makes him a suitable candidate.
England U21 coach Lee Carsley has praised Guehi for his `leadership qualities on and off the field`. Having captained Crystal Palace, he could potentially even become a candidate for the armband at Liverpool in the future. In this sense, the England international shares a similarity with Jordan Henderson, arriving from a Premier League rival after demonstrating authority and influence alongside his technical skill.
Guehi is widely regarded as one of the Premier League`s most composed and technically proficient ball-playing centre-backs. According to FBref, he ranks among the top 12% of central defenders in Europe over the past year for shot-creating actions per 90 minutes.
His well-rounded profile and potential to help guide Liverpool into a new era over the coming years echo the journey of Jordan Henderson. Guehi would have the chance to play alongside a defensive stalwart like Virgil van Dijk as the Dutch captain nears the end of his prime, much like Henderson learned alongside Steven Gerrard earlier in his Liverpool career.
Liverpool signed Jordan Henderson from Sunderland for £20m in 2011. At the time, he was already an England international and considered a very promising midfield prospect.
