Liverpool are preparing for a potentially pivotal January transfer window as manager Arne Slot looks to address defensive concerns and secure the future of a key player. The Reds, who have endured a stop-start season, are reportedly back in the hunt for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, while vice-captain Andy Robertson has entered talks over a new contract.
Crystal Palace Set Marc Guehi Asking Price
According to transfer expert Florian Plettenberg, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner will demand a fee in the region of £35 million to £40 million to sell centre-back Marc Guehi this month. The 25-year-old, whose contract expires in the summer, would be available on a free transfer if no deal is struck in January.
Guehi is one of the most sought-after defenders in the Premier League, with Liverpool, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich all credited with a strong interest. The England international came close to joining Liverpool on deadline day last summer, but the move was blocked by Palace chairman Steve Parish.
Explaining the decision at the time, Parish told talkSPORT that keeping Guehi was vital for the club's ambitions, including their historic first campaign in the Conference League. He described the call as "a difficult decision" that was based on giving the team the best chance of success.
Andy Robertson Opens Door on Liverpool Future
In other significant news from Anfield, left-back and vice-captain Andy Robertson has confirmed that contract discussions with the club have begun. The Scotland international's current deal is set to expire in five months, making his situation a priority for the Reds' hierarchy.
"We've had chats now which will remain private," Robertson stated. "I've spoken to them and we'll see what happens. Would I like to stay? Yes, but it's a difficult question to ask."
The defender emphasised that he will consider all options with his family, leaving his future open. "I need to see what myself and my family wants moving forward," he added, after a summer focused on helping Scotland qualify for the World Cup.
Injury Crisis Fuels Liverpool's Transfer Urgency
The need for reinforcements, particularly in defence, has been heightened by a series of long-term injuries. The club's record £125 million signing, Alexander Isak, suffered a serious leg injury in December and faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Furthermore, summer arrival Giovanni Leoni, a highly-rated Italian centre-back, sustained a season-ending injury in September and is not expected to return to full fitness until the summer at the earliest. These setbacks, following a summer where Liverpool spent £446 million on seven new signings, have increased the likelihood of further January business as Slot seeks to stabilise his squad.
With the Guehi pursuit reignited and Robertson's future on the agenda, the coming weeks at Anfield promise to be busy both on and off the pitch.
