Arne Slot’s Liverpool may be forced to rethink their defensive plans after missing out on their primary target, Marc Guehi.
As the summer transfer window drew to a dramatic close, Liverpool were heavily linked with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi.
Reports on deadline day even suggested the England centre-back had completed a medical, only for the deal to collapse in the final hours.
Since then, there was a growing belief that Liverpool would return for Guehi either in January or once his Palace contract approached its end. That plan now appears off the table, with Manchester City closing in on the defender’s signature.
With Guehi expected to join Pep Guardiola’s side in the coming days, Liverpool may now need to turn their attention to three alternative centre-back options.
Palace are understood to have accepted a £20 million bid for Guehi, with the player already agreeing personal terms.
The development leaves Liverpool searching elsewhere as they look to reinforce their defence in the near future.
Liverpool’s Three Marc Guehi Alternatives
Nico Schlotterbeck – Borussia Dortmund
With Ibrahima Konaté’s contract set to expire in the summer, Liverpool could prioritise a centre-back capable of stepping straight into the starting XI. Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck fits that profile.
The 26-year-old brings physical presence similar to Konaté, standing at 1.91 metres, while also offering a threat in attacking situations, having scored eight goals for Borussia Dortmund. His left-footed, progressive style would suit the left side of Liverpool’s defence perfectly.
Schlotterbeck’s contract runs until 2027, but despite talks over a renewal, he is reportedly reluctant to extend his stay in Germany. That situation could encourage Dortmund to sell rather than risk losing him for free later on.
Alessandro Bastoni – Inter Milan
Another elite option is Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni, a player already familiar to Liverpool’s scouting department.
At 26, Bastoni has built an impressive résumé, winning two Serie A titles, multiple domestic cups, and Euro 2020 with Italy. Italian legend Giorgio Chiellini has previously described him as “one of the best defenders” in world football.
Liverpool have been linked with Bastoni several times, with reports suggesting Inter would demand a fee of at least £80 million. While a January move is possible, a summer transfer appears more likely, particularly as Konaté’s future becomes clearer.
Marcos Senesi – AFC Bournemouth
Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes could also revisit familiar ground by turning to his former club Bournemouth.
Marcos Senesi has been one of the standout defenders this season and is approaching the end of his contract, which expires in June. The 28-year-old is keen to take the next step in his career and has reportedly rejected extension offers.
With more than 100 Premier League appearances to his name, Senesi would bring experience and adaptability, allowing him to settle quickly into Liverpool’s back line. Even if the club pursue a marquee signing like Schlotterbeck or Bastoni, securing Senesi on a free transfer could represent smart squad-building.
Liverpool are not alone in the race, however, with Napoli and Chelsea both said to be monitoring the Argentine international ahead of the summer window.
