Liverpool's Title Dreams Hinge on Landing Marc Guehi This Transfer Window
Many people question the significance of preseason matches, but those who watched Liverpool's summer exhibitions could have foreseen the turmoil in their Premier League debut.
Liverpool, predictably after such massive expenditure, have appeared dynamic in attack. Hugo Ekitiké has instantly thrived and record acquisition Florian Wirtz has shown flashes of his talent. However, the Reds shipped 11 goals across their seven preseason matches and surrendered two more in their opening day triumph against Bournemouth. Despite all the investment—exceeding £300 million ($402.5 million) with bonuses—their backline remains questionable.
The strikes Liverpool have allowed since returning all share common characteristics. Most have originated from counter-attacks, swift transitions that exploited a vulnerable and outnumbered defense. Both of Antoine Semenyo's strikes in the 4–2 victory over Bournemouth bore striking resemblance to those permitted against AC Milan, Athletic Club and Crystal Palace.
Absences and bans in Arne Slot's central midfield partnership haven't assisted, but it's the forward positioning of Liverpool's new wing-backs and the subpar displays of their center-halves that have enabled such defensive collapses. If the Reds wish to defend their Premier League crown, they require defensive reinforcement. They require Marc Guéhi.
Liverpool have been consistently connected with the Crystal Palace center-back throughout the summer window and justifiably so. The 25-year-old has gained recognition at Selhurst Park through his reliability and tactical awareness, quickly establishing himself as a crucial component of the London club's defense—and an FA Cup and Community Shield champion in recent months.
Guéhi has gained recognition not through desperate tackles or commanding aerial presence, but through his remarkable game intelligence. The England defender is composed, taking time and awaiting the ideal opportunity to intervene. He's robust and athletic, yet refined. Whether defending or in possession, he demonstrates sophistication.
There are elements of Virgil van Dijk in Guéhi's approach. That readiness to invite pressure with complete confidence in one's ability when the moment comes to act. Naturally, he lacks the imposing 6'4 stature of Liverpool's captain, but compensates for limited height with complete spatial awareness and an excellent duel success rate. Like Van Dijk, he's also right-footed but capable of playing left center-back—a valuable versatility.
With Guéhi's contract expiring next summer, he's never been more attainable. While £35 million ($47 million) represents significant expenditure for a player available without fee next summer, Liverpool require him immediately. They won't locate a defender of Guéhi's caliber and experience for any lower price.
The Reds presently possess just four natural center-back choices. Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté form the primary partnership, while Joe Gomez and 18-year-old acquisition Giovanni Leoni provide backup for urgent situations. Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch have operated centrally in preseason but aren't sustainable long-term solutions.
Liverpool already understand they cannot depend on Gomez's availability throughout a complete campaign. The adaptable defender featured in merely 17 fixtures last season after missing the campaign's latter half, and has only recently recovered from another preseason injury. Leoni remains unproven and, despite expectations for immediate impact this term, the Reds cannot depend on a youngster without Premier League experience and only 30 senior appearances.
Van Dijk is 34 and declining. He remains an outstanding center-back but, as demonstrated in the Community Shield, he's no longer the unbreachable presence that revolutionized Liverpool under Jürgen Klopp. He will commit more errors as time advances and Slot cannot risk overusing him in his final years.
Konaté presents a puzzle for both present and future. The French defender's contract expires next summer and currently seems more inclined to depart than remain amid attention from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. His poor showing against Bournemouth might indicate his focus has shifted toward his next destination.
Championships are frequently secured by defenses and Liverpool's current center-back roster, combined with the increasingly offensive nature of their flanking full-backs, leaves significant room for improvement. One or two injuries and Liverpool will be reduced to bare bones, compelled to deploy defensive midfielders in the backline. Protecting their Premier League title and securing additional trophies will become unachievable.
Guéhi isn't a luxury purchase, he's a necessity. Liverpool would be irresponsible to reach the summer deadline with only their present central defensive personnel. All the effort invested in assembling one of the globe's most potent attacking units could be wasted. A single injury to Van Dijk or Konaté could sabotage the season.
Slot's summer investments indicate he's attempting to establish a dynasty at Anfield. Guéhi represents the next crucial component.