Liverpool are heading into a January transfer window that many assumed would be quiet, yet behind the scenes at Anfield, a significant development is taking shape. The club has moved away from reactive winter signings and now operates with planning, discretion, and strategy. When Liverpool act in January, it usually signals one of two things: a major threat from a rival club or an opportunity that cannot be allowed to slip away.
Supporters still recall how Liverpool stepped in swiftly to secure Cody Gakpo ahead of Manchester United, and how they disrupted Tottenham’s pursuit of Luis Díaz. Those deals demonstrated Liverpool’s ability to act decisively when required. But this upcoming window feels different. With Arne Slot overseeing a new era, Liverpool are assessing how to strengthen the foundations of a squad that is competitive but still incomplete.
One of the lingering frustrations from the summer was the collapse of Marc Guehi’s transfer. Everything had been agreed — the fee, the contract, the structure — until Crystal Palace unexpectedly withdrew at the final stage. Liverpool viewed Guehi as the ideal long-term successor in central defence as Virgil van Dijk enters the later stages of his career.
Many believed that the logical next step would be to wait until summer, when Guehi is expected to become a free agent. However, new reports suggest Liverpool are preparing another attempt in January. At first glance this seems counterintuitive — why spend money now when the player could arrive for free in a few months? The reasoning is simple: competition. If Guehi is available without a transfer fee in June, nearly every major European club will take part. Manchester United, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Juventus, and even Manchester City are all expected to monitor the situation. Liverpool want to avoid a bidding war that could undermine their chances.
Crystal Palace also have good reason to sell. January represents their final opportunity to secure a transfer fee. If Liverpool return with a serious proposal, the pressure will shift to Palace, and Guehi will face a quick decision. Liverpool were his preferred destination during the summer negotiations, and the key question now is whether he still sees Anfield as the ideal next step.
Nothing, however, is straightforward. Other clubs will express interest, agents will push for improved financial offers, and the prospect of a large signing-on bonus in the summer remains tempting. From a financial perspective, waiting makes sense. From a footballing standpoint, Liverpool offer a defined role, a clear project, and a manager who values Guehi’s qualities. Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes both view him as a long-term pillar of the defence.
This is why Liverpool may move now. Delaying the transfer reduces cost but increases risk. Acting early provides certainty and gives the squad the authoritative, composed defender they currently lack. With van Dijk nearing the twilight of his Liverpool career, securing the next leader at the back is becoming increasingly important.
Some supporters may argue that the club should take its time, but recent history shows that hesitation can cost Liverpool key targets. Elite teams are built from the defence outward, and Guehi represents stability for years ahead.
Should Liverpool complete the signing in January, the move would be more than just a transfer. It would be a statement of intent, a demonstration of ambition, and a reminder to rivals that Liverpool remain proactive, alert, and committed to strengthening their future.
Speculation will rise, rivals will downplay their interest, and Palace will hold their stance — but Liverpool appear ready to make a decisive move. And if Marc Guehi finally arrives at Anfield this winter, it will confirm that Liverpool are still prepared to act boldly when the right opportunity appears
