Barcelona have included Liverpool target Marc Guehi in their five-man shortlist of centre-backs to reinforce the position this summer. The Catalans have been struggling defensively this season and need new signings.
Barcelona's struggles began after one of their key centre-backs, Inigo Martinez, left the club this summer to join Al-Nassr. Martinez's departure came as a shock, and no replacement was signed. With the Spaniard gone, Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsi, and Andreas Christensen remain in the squad. However, neither has been able to establish themselves as a regular or undisputed starter.
According to journalist Roger Torello, Barcelona have identified five players to reinforce the centre-back position this summer. One of them is Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi, who is one of Liverpool's targets as well. Other names include Gonçalo Inácio, Murillo, Nico Schlotterbeck, and Benedetti.
Marc Guehi was heavily linked to the Reds last summer, with a deal reportedly in place. However, the deal collapsed on deadline day after Crystal Palace failed to sign a suitable replacement for the defender. Latest reports from The Athletic suggest that the Reds are no longer favorites to sign Guehi, with Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City in the race.
Moreover, Guehi reportedly wants to play in the UEFA Champions League. Liverpool's recent poor run in the league has cast a doubt about their qualification for the competition. This makes other clubs better suited to sign Marc Guehi. With Barca, it will all depend on their economic situation, given their struggles are well-documented.
Liverpool target former Barcelona manager Luis Enrique as long-term replacement for Arne Slot
Luis Enrique - Source: Getty
Luis Enrique - Source: Getty
According to Mundo Deportivo, Liverpool have identified former Barcelona and current Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) manager Luis Enrique as a long-term replacement for Arne Slot. Enrique's current contract with the French giants runs until 2027.
Luis Enrique had an exceptional last season, having led PSG to the treble, including the first UEFA Champions League in their history. He has previously also historically led Barca to the treble in the 2014-15 season. Enrique has also previously expressed his interest in working in the Premier League.
Although Arne Slot led Liverpool to the Premier League last season, the club has been suffering this season. The Merseysiders are 12th in the league, having lost six of their 12 games. Moreover, their 4-1 loss to PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League at Anfield has raised questions about Slot's future at the club.
The aforementioned report suggests that if Arne Slot is let go before the end of this season, Jurgen Klopp could return as an interim option. However, the Reds will focus on securing Enrique's coaching services as the long-term option.