Liverpool appear to have missed out on signing Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo in January, which means the Reds may have to look for an alternative if they are to boost their depleted options in attack next month.
Arne Slot’s side are believed to be exploring a move for a new forward following Mohamed Salah’s departure to the Africa Cup of Nations and a serious injury to Alexander Isak, who is set to miss two months after going down in their 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur last weekend.
While their alternative to Semenyo has not surfaced yet, Liverpool have a much more urgent deal to complete when the market reopens next month, one that could shape their longer-term plans.
Liverpool Must Sign Marc Guehi
Marc Guehi
Liverpool were close to completing a deal for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi in the final hours of the summer transfer window.
The England international is believed to have undergone his medical ahead of the proposed move, before Crystal Palace called the deal off as Oliver Glasner was unable to bring in a replacement in time.
Almost four months later, Liverpool maintain their interest in Guehi ahead of the market reopening in January and, according to reports, may even have a gentlemen’s agreement to bring the 25-year-old to Anfield next year, with Sky Sports journalist Kaveh Solhekol claiming:
“I've heard talk that he may have a gentleman's agreement with Liverpool, that he will sign for Liverpool.”
While Guehi is being courted by a number of top European and Premier League clubs ahead of his contract expiry at Selhurst Park next year, a move for the 'world-class' central defender is something Liverpool should be placing at the top of their agenda.
The Reds have been underwhelming defensively under Arne Slot this term, keeping just five clean sheets across 17 league games, and need a replacement for Ibrahima Konate, whose contract runs out at the end of the season.
Arne Slot May Retain Konate
Liverpool's Ibrahima Konate hugs Real Madrid's Trent Alexander-Arnold
Amid their long-standing interest in Guehi, Liverpool have still not ruled out retaining Konate beyond his contract expiry.
According to GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Fabrizio Romano, the defending Premier League champions have made an offer for Konate to extend his contract and are now awaiting the Frenchman’s decision.
Konate is believed to have interest from several other clubs, excluding Real Madrid, who have informed Liverpool they will not be pursuing a deal for the 26-year-old next year.
Marc Guehi Related
'I Can Tell You' - Fabrizio Romano Issues Marc Guehi to Liverpool Update for January
Liverpool have yet to advance their interest in Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi ahead of January.