Liverpool’s Next Move: 6 Centre-Backs to Target After the Marc Guehi Blow
Liverpool are now paying the price for failing to secure Marc Guehi last summer, with Manchester City striking a £20m agreement with Crystal Palace for the England centre-back.
Guehi is heading to the Etihad just four months after Palace boss Oliver Glasner blocked his Anfield move on deadline day. The 25-year-old was already in Merseyside to complete a switch to Arne Slot’s side before Glasner threatened to resign if his captain was sold. Despite having the entire summer to act, Liverpool waited until the final hours to formalise their approach – a delay that has now seen the defender slip into the hands of a direct rival.
It represents a major blow to Slot’s rebuild, but Liverpool’s recruitment team are already exploring alternatives to reinforce the back line, either this month or in the summer.
One obvious option is Guehi’s Palace partner, Maxence Lacroix. The Frenchman has impressed alongside him at Selhurst Park and fits Liverpool’s profile in terms of age, athleticism and versatility, capable of playing on either side of central defence. Lacroix has previously been linked with a move to Anfield and offers pace, aggression and physical presence. With a contract running until 2029, he would cost more than Guehi, but he may be open to leaving, especially with both his defensive partner and manager set to depart.
Another long-standing target is Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande. Liverpool have tracked the Ivorian since early 2025, and his performances in Portugal have only enhanced his reputation. Strong, quick and composed on the ball, the 22-year-old can operate in both a back three and a back four. A £50m release clause stands in the way, and there is always risk when signing from abroad, but his ceiling is immense.
Perhaps the most eye-catching alternative is Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven. Despite Spurs’ struggles, the Dutchman remains one of the league’s standout centre-backs. At 24, he has already proven his quality in England, combining defensive authority with surprising attacking threat. Tottenham’s turbulent situation could open the door, and reports suggest the player has long admired Liverpool, even supporting the club as a child.
For a budget-friendly option, Liverpool could turn to Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi. Out of contract in the summer, the Argentine has been one of the league’s most reliable defenders. At 28, he brings experience and consistency, and may be more willing than others to rotate with Ibrahima Konaté. His influence under Andoni Iraola – including four assists in 20 league games – underlines his value.
Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke is another name under consideration. The 6ft 2in centre-back has been a cornerstone of the Seagulls’ defence since 2020, offering aerial dominance and strong character. While Brighton are notoriously tough negotiators, former striker Troy Deeney believes Van Hecke is destined for a major move and sees Anfield as the perfect fit.
Arsenal’s Ben White also presents an intriguing opportunity. With Mikel Arteta continuing to strengthen his defence, White’s minutes have dwindled – just five league appearances this season. Versatile enough to play centre-back or right-back, the 28-year-old is a manager’s dream and brings title-winning experience. Danny Murphy has suggested Slot should consider him, noting that he would solve multiple issues in one move.
Missing out on Guehi stings, but Liverpool are far from short of credible alternatives. The challenge now is ensuring history does not repeat itself.