Liverpool make shocking transfer call as leading target is ‘no longer an option’

Liverpool have received mixed updates on the transfer front, with one potential deal progressing and another appearing less likely.

The Premier League champions have been very busy this window, already securing the signings of Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez to bolster Arne Slot’s squad.

They also submitted a £110 million bid for Alexander Isak, but Newcastle turned it down, insisting the unsettled Swedish striker is not for sale.

Despite that, Liverpool continue to pursue reinforcements, particularly in defence.

Marc Guehi, the Crystal Palace captain, remains a key target. The club has been short on centre-backs following Jarell Quansah’s move to Bayer Leverkusen.

Speculation about Guehi’s potential switch intensified after fans noticed Virgil van Dijk’s notable reaction to Arne Slot shaking hands with Guehi in the Wembley tunnel before the Community Shield.

Sky Sports has now provided an update: Liverpool remain in negotiations for the England international and are still considered front-runners to sign him. However, they are unwilling to pay over the odds, and the two sides are currently apart on valuation.

At this point, Guehi is expected to stay with Palace for their debut European campaign and potentially leave on a free transfer next summer when his contract expires. Though open to joining Liverpool, Guehi hasn’t actively pushed for a move.

Liverpool near £26 million deal for young defender

While Guehi’s arrival is uncertain, Liverpool are set to land a new centre-back. Multiple reports confirm that 18-year-old Giovanni Leoni of Parma is close to joining in a deal worth around £26.9 million.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Leoni will be integrated directly into Arne Slot’s first-team squad rather than being loaned out. Parma have also agreed to include a sell-on clause in the deal.

Leoni is currently en route to Liverpool with his agent to complete a medical and sign his contract. He impressed last season with 17 appearances for Parma during his breakthrough campaign.