Liverpool’s January priorities are becoming increasingly clear — and it starts at centre-back.
While Arsenal continue to draw plaudits for the defensive dominance of Gabriel Magalhães, Liverpool are quietly assessing a Premier League defender who, statistically and stylistically, may be just as impactful — if not more so in certain areas.
That player is Marc Guéhi.
A Defence One Injury From Trouble
Despite sitting comfortably inside the top four, Liverpool are a long way from last season’s title-winning defensive stability. Arne Slot’s system still leans heavily on Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, and the drop-off beyond them remains stark.
With depth already stretched and long-term planning essential, Liverpool’s recruitment team have reportedly drawn up a shortlist — and Guéhi sits right at the top.
Why Guéhi Fits Slot’s Blueprint
Now Crystal Palace captain, Guéhi has developed into one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders. Comfortable on the ball, aggressive in duels and positionally disciplined, the England international has thrived under Oliver Glasner, helping Palace lift domestic silverware and cement their defensive identity.
Crucially, Guéhi’s profile aligns perfectly with Slot’s possession-based structure:
- Progressive passing: Higher output than Gabriel per 90
- Ball recoveries: Among the league’s best for centre-backs
- Aerial improvement: 69% success rate this season, up sharply year-on-year
Liverpool already rank top of the league for aerial duel success — losing that edge would be costly. Guéhi doesn’t just maintain it; he modernises it.
Gabriel vs Guéhi — The Numbers Tell a Story
While Gabriel remains Arsenal’s defensive reference point, data comparisons show Guéhi matching — and in some areas exceeding — the Brazilian:
- More progressive passes
- More interceptions and recoveries
- Greater on-ball mobility
Gabriel dominates headlines. Guéhi dominates space.
The £35m Question
With Guéhi entering the final year of his contract, Crystal Palace value their captain at around £35m — a figure Liverpool are understandably cautious about but one that looks increasingly reasonable given the market.
At 25, Guéhi is entering his prime. At Anfield, surrounded by elite structure and Champions League football, his ceiling rises significantly.
TRNDR Verdict
Gabriel may be the louder name right now — but Guéhi is the smarter evolution.
For Liverpool, this isn’t just about defensive cover. It’s about succession, control, and future-proofing a title challenge before cracks become fractures.
If Liverpool want to stay elite, this is the kind of signing that quietly wins leagues.
