Liverpool target £45m Premier League star to fill key Slot request | OneFootball

Guehi Move Gains Momentum as Liverpool Back Slot’s Vision

Slot seeks full depth across key positions

Liverpool’s transfer window has already taken on a historic tone, not just in financial terms but in structural ambition. The arrival of Florian Wirtz for a club-record fee, followed by Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez and the imminent signing of Hugo Ekitike, is indicative of a squad remodel that speaks to a new chapter.

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Yet, amid the aggressive recruitment, one element remains missing. As reported by The Athletic, Arne Slot is pushing for parity across all positions. He wants two high-level players per role. While the attack and midfield are now saturated with quality, the same cannot yet be said for the defence.

The departure of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen has left a numerical and strategic void. Slot now has just three recognised centre-backs and, crucially, a reduced homegrown quota. That’s where Marc Guehi enters the conversation.

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Guehi suits Liverpool’s evolving demands

Guehi is increasingly seen as the ideal candidate to bolster Slot’s defensive ranks. Aged 24, homegrown, and with Premier League and international experience, he fits Liverpool’s criteria for immediate contribution and long-term value.

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According to The Athletic, Crystal Palace are prepared to sanction a sale for around £45 million, given Guehi is entering the final year of his contract. It’s a sizeable fee, particularly for a player who could leave on a free in 2026, but Liverpool’s need may outweigh the cost.

Slot’s desire for balance is well documented. His approach hinges on continuity, rotation and adaptability across multiple competitions. Guehi would not arrive as cover, but as a serious challenger for a starting place alongside Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate.

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Homegrown factor adds weight to move

Liverpool are navigating a squad structure that places emphasis on homegrown status, especially under Premier League and UEFA registration rules. With Quansah departing and Curtis Jones one of few senior homegrown options remaining, Guehi’s profile becomes even more valuable.

This move would not only strengthen the squad on the pitch, but also alleviate administrative pressure. That kind of efficiency matters in modern squad building.

Guehi deal depends on final push

While there is optimism around Liverpool’s interest, no formal bid has yet been lodged. Palace are not expected to resist should their valuation be met, but time will be a factor. Guehi’s involvement at EURO 2024 delayed movement, and other suitors may yet emerge.

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Still, Slot’s clear request for defensive reinforcement could be the decisive trigger. The club has invested heavily elsewhere. Matching that commitment at centre-back would reinforce the message that this project is built around the manager’s vision.

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This move makes sense on every level. Guehi is not just a defender for today, but one for the next five to seven years. He is athletic, calm in possession and a strong reader of the game, everything Slot needs to implement his high-line system and quick transitions.

The price might feel steep at £45 million, especially with just one year left on his contract, but that’s the going rate for Premier League-ready, homegrown centre-backs. Liverpool have seen what happens when depth runs dry. One injury to Van Dijk or Konate and suddenly the structure begins to wobble.

Fans should be encouraged that Slot is being backed so aggressively. There’s intent, vision and cohesion to this window. A Guehi signing would not only round off the squad but complete the rebuild with purpose. The goal now is to make sure last season’s success is the foundation, not the ceiling.