Liverpool may be the only club seriously considering a move for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi in January. The Eagles reportedly believe that other European clubs would prefer to wait until the end of the season to sign the England international on a free transfer once his contract expires.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has warned that failing to strengthen at centre-back during the January window could jeopardize the club’s chances of qualifying for the Champions League next season. He suggested that Liverpool should pursue both Guehi and forward Antoine Semenyo.
“Liverpool need to spend in January and address the centre-back position,” Carragher explained. “They should have done it in the summer, but they didn’t. The one centre-back they brought in, Leoni, impressed in his Carabao Cup appearance, but unfortunately suffered an ACL injury, meaning he won’t feature until next season. The squad is vulnerable; another injury in that area could derail their campaign.”
Carragher continued, “Not signing Marc Guehi was a mistake. Liverpool have a reputation for smart business in the transfer market, but missing out on a key defender could cost them. If they don’t act in January, there’s a real risk they could miss out on Champions League qualification.”
He added that Liverpool’s struggles in some of their defeats have highlighted a lack of physicality in the squad. “They’ve struggled against teams that play a more physical style, particularly away from home. The team will likely need more physically dominant players, and perhaps adding pace and power on the wings is also essential. Antoine Semenyo could fit that profile—quick, strong, and a natural athlete. Liverpool currently lack that explosive pace outside, with neither Mohamed Salah nor Cody Gakpo providing it consistently.”
Carragher’s comments underline the urgency for Liverpool to reinforce their squad in the winter window if they hope to maintain their top-four ambitions
