Liverpool’s transfer strategy regarding Marc Guehi remains firmly unchanged, despite the recent injury setback to Giovanni Leoni. According to The Times journalist Paul Joyce, the Reds are not rushing into altering their well-laid-out plans, even though losing Leoni to a long-term issue could easily tempt them to act quicker in the transfer market. Guehi, Crystal Palace’s captain, has long been admired by Liverpool, but their approach has always been structured around timing and financial prudence rather than desperation.
The Merseyside club tried unsuccessfully to bring Guehi in during the summer window. Instead of forcing the issue or overspending, the plan was to monitor the situation and potentially sign him once his contract runs down, allowing Liverpool to secure his services as a free agent. That strategy remains intact, with the club preferring patience over impulsive spending, even though the current defensive situation suggests they could benefit from reinforcement sooner rather than later.
However, this cautious approach carries risk. As a free agent, Guehi will naturally attract significant interest across Europe. Clubs such as Manchester City and Real Madrid are expected to make strong offers, both financially and sporting-wise. Liverpool’s task will therefore be to convince Guehi that Anfield is the best destination for his career growth. The Reds are relying on their prestige, project under Arne Slot, and history of integrating top defenders into world-class players as factors that might tip the balance in their favor.
For now, Slot has publicly downplayed the Guehi talk, particularly on the eve of a game against Crystal Palace, choosing instead to focus on his current squad. He insists he has enough options to cover for Leoni in the short term. Still, within the fanbase, there is a lively debate. Many supporters argue that failing to reinforce in January could be a mistake, especially if Liverpool aim to compete across the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cups. Others feel the club is right to avoid being pressured into spending money on a player who will soon be available for free.
The situation highlights a classic football dilemma: short-term necessity versus long-term strategy. While Guehi would undoubtedly improve Liverpool’s defensive depth immediately, the club is sticking to their principle of value-driven recruitment. Whether that patience pays off or backfires—potentially seeing Guehi join a rival—will become clearer in the months ahead.
