Liverpool are actively pursuing two centre-back signings this summer to strengthen their defence. Both players operate in the same position, but the club is keen on securing both to address immediate and long-term needs.
Marc Guehi: The Immediate Solution from Crystal Palace
Marc Guehi, the 23-year-old Crystal Palace captain and England international, is the primary target. Reports indicate Liverpool are increasing their efforts to sign the defender, who has just 12 months remaining on his contract.
Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish recently said Guehi would either sign a new contract or leave. The latest information suggests the player is more likely to depart. Liverpool have reportedly held initial talks with Palace about a possible transfer before the summer window closes.
Liverpool see Guehi as a consistent and reliable performer who could compete immediately for a starting place alongside Ibrahima Konaté and Virgil van Dijk. His leadership as Palace captain adds to his appeal.
Giovanni Leone: A Strategic Signing for the Future
Liverpool are also targeting Giovanni Leone, a 19-year-old centre-back from Parma. Unlike Guehi, Leone is considered a long-term prospect rather than an immediate starter.
Leone has fewer than 20 senior appearances, mostly in Serie B and Serie C, but his physical attributes and defensive instincts have attracted interest. Signing Leone would follow Liverpool’s recent trend of investing in young defensive talent such as Levi Colwill and Leny Yoro.
Addressing Short- and Long-Term Defensive Needs
Liverpool’s defence has been stretched this season. The departure of Jarell Quansah and Joe Gomez’s injury issues have reduced available centre-back options. This makes signing Guehi a priority to provide immediate competition and depth.
Meanwhile, Leone could be developed gradually. Initially, he might serve as a backup or be loaned out for regular game time. He would not need to be registered for the Premier League squad immediately due to his age, simplifying registration rules.
The club’s dual pursuit of Guehi and Leone reflects a strategy to strengthen both the present and future defensive lines.
Comparing Liverpool’s Defensive Targets
| Player | Age | Current Club | Contract Length Left | Estimated Fee | Role at Liverpool | Key Attributes | Squad Registration Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marc Guehi | 23 | Crystal Palace | 12 months | Around £50 million | Immediate starter/competition | England international, captain, consistent performer | Counts as homegrown player |
| Giovanni Leone | 19 | Parma | Not specified | Approx. €15m (£12m) + bonuses | Development prospect | Physicality, defensive instincts, young talent | Under-21, no Premier League registration needed |
Contract Situations and Squad Registration Advantages
Guehi qualifies as a homegrown player, which benefits Liverpool under Premier League squad rules. Leone, being under 21, would not require Premier League registration yet, easing administrative processes for the club.
Virgil van Dijk is entering the final year of his contract next summer and is in his mid-thirties. Ibrahima Konaté has yet to renew his deal, and Joe Gomez’s injury history remains a concern. These factors highlight the importance of bolstering the defence now.
Ongoing Developments Around Alexander Isak
Parallel to defensive targets, Liverpool are monitoring Alexander Isak’s situation at Newcastle United. Isak reportedly wants to leave, having moved out of his residence and informed the club of his intentions.
Newcastle, however, are under no obligation to sell. A transfer would likely require Newcastle to secure replacements and Liverpool to meet the asking price. The striker’s future remains uncertain amid these ongoing talks.
Financial Context and Transfer Strategy
Liverpool’s net spending this summer remains modest thanks to significant player sales including Luis Díaz and Trent Alexander-Arnold. Funds from these departures increase the club’s capacity to pursue multiple incoming transfers.
The club is balancing immediate needs with long-term planning by targeting both experienced and young defenders. This approach aims to maintain defensive solidity now while building for future seasons.
