Liverpool eyeing moves for three Marc Guehi alternatives | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Alternatives as Guehi Wait Continues

Liverpool’s pursuit of Marc Guehi has taken another twist. The Crystal Palace captain was close to joining Anfield on deadline day, only for Palace to end negotiations at the last minute. That setback has left Liverpool considering whether to wait until next summer to get their man on a free transfer or move on to other targets entirely, according to Rousing the Kop.

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Reports suggest Liverpool remain confident that Guehi is keen on a move to Merseyside, but the club cannot afford to be complacent. “Available for nothing, or for a small fee in January, Guehi will surely be alerting interest from clubs across Europe.” The danger of being beaten to a priority signing is real.

Murillo Presents Aggressive Option

Before the Guehi links gathered pace, Liverpool were already monitoring Nottingham Forest’s Murillo. The 21-year-old Brazilian has been one of the most impressive young defenders in the Premier League. His blend of strength, anticipation and technical ability has quickly turned him into a star at the City Ground.

Murillo will not come cheap, with Forest certain to demand a premium, but he offers proven top-flight experience and could anchor Liverpool’s back line for years. He is described as an “aggressive” defender and looks destined for a step up.

Van Hecke Fits the Profile

Another name under consideration is Jan Paul van Hecke of Brighton. The Dutch international is entering the final two years of his contract and could be available at a price Liverpool deem reasonable.

Van Hecke has already formed an international partnership with Virgil van Dijk, which could make him an appealing candidate. Brighton, however, are famously tough negotiators, and Liverpool would need to be prepared to meet their valuation.

Scalvini Offers European Flair

The third option is Giorgio Scalvini, one of Italy’s most promising young defenders. At just 21, he has already played a key role for Atalanta, helping them lift the Europa League. Injuries have slowed his progress, but his potential ceiling is high.

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Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes has used his Italian contacts to great effect in recent summers, bringing in Federico Chiesa and Giovanni Leoni. A move for Scalvini would fit that trend, potentially setting up an all-Italian partnership in the future.

For now, all eyes will remain on Guehi. Whether Liverpool wait patiently or act decisively with one of these alternatives will be one of the key storylines heading into 2026.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The Guehi saga is a test of the club’s resolve and ambition. It is clear Guehi is the first choice, and there is logic in waiting if the player has indicated a desire to join on a free transfer. That said, the risk is obvious. Allowing a top-level centre-back to go to another rival, simply because of timing, could backfire if injuries or form become issues later in the season.

Murillo would be the statement signing, albeit at a significant cost. He has already shown he can cope with Premier League football and his aggressive style could add bite to Liverpool’s back line. Van Hecke feels like a more affordable, steady option with the bonus of existing chemistry with Van Dijk. Scalvini would be a long-term play, one that could excite fans given the club’s recent success in tapping into the Italian market.

Most supporters will simply want Liverpool to be proactive. Whether it is Guehi in the summer or an alternative in January, adding another defender of high quality is essential if this team is to compete across all fronts.