Arne Slot, Manager of Liverpool, interacts with Thomas Frank, now manager of Tottenhamplaceholder image
Arne Slot, Manager of Liverpool, interacts with Thomas Frank, now manager of Tottenham | Getty Images
Tottenham Hotspur are eyeing a move for a central defender who could be viewed as a Marc Guehi replacement by Crystal Palace
Liverpool made it three wins from three in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon with a narrow victory over title rivals Arsenal at Anfield.
There had been concerns over the Reds’ defensive capabilities after they conceded twice against Crystal Palace (in the Community Shield), Bournemouth and 10-man Newcastle United. However, they shut out Mikel Arteta’s side.
Joe Gomez came on after an injury to Ibrahima Konate and the Reds veteran showed his defensive prowess with some strong clearances to preserve the clean sheet. Ahead of the game, Liverpool had been linked with a move for Crystal Palace ace Marc Guehi with a £35m offer made.
Oliver Glasner has concerns over replacing Guehi
Speaking to the media ahead of his side’s clash with Villa, Eagles boss Oliver Glasner expressed concerns about signing an adequate replacement for Guehi ahead of the transfer deadline.
He said: “From my side, he has to [still be a Crystal Palace player] because it’s not possible at the moment to find a Marc Guéhi replacement who can play straight in the Premier League, being a starter, being consistent.
“When we see our foundation of success in the last few months, it’s our defence … Marc is a crucial part. Getting the right replacement in now is almost impossible.”
One player who could be seen as an ideal replacement for Guehi is Manchester City ace Manuel Akanji but reports in Italy claim it is Tottenham Hotspur who are leading the chase.
Tottenham lead chase for Manuel Akanji amid Crystal Palace interest
According to Gazetta Dello Sport, Palace, Spurs and AC Milan are all interested in Akanji. Galatasaray had previously been linked but are now said to be out of the running.
AC Milan have no issues meeting Man City’s demands but are set to struggle in their attempts to convince Akanji due to the player’s wage demands and his desire to play in the Champions League. The report said: “The Rossoneri also have to contend with Akanji's desire to play in the Champions League. From this perspective, Tottenham are ahead of the Rossoneri. Crystal Palace are in third place.”
The news that Palace are third in the running with Spurs leading the chase could spell bad news for Liverpool. Glasner appears determined to keep hold of Guehi, especially if he cannot sign an adequate replacement. The interest from Spurs and AC Milan will hurt the Reds’ pursuit of Guehi unless Palace can find an alternative in time.
Liverpool have ruled out the possibility of Joe Gomez heading to Selhurst Park in a potential swap.
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