Liverpool have reportedly set their sights on Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi as the transfer deadline approaches.
The Reds came under scrutiny for their defensive shortcomings in their Premier League opener, despite securing a 4-2 win over Bournemouth last Friday. Yet, according to Jamie Carragher’s view of the Merseyside side, Guehi may not be the ideal solution to their defensive concerns.
Arne Slot guided Liverpool to the Premier League crown in his debut season at Anfield, delivering 25 league wins and 14 clean sheets. However, their flaws were evident once more against the Cherries, with Antoine Semenyo netting twice in the second half to bring Bournemouth close to pulling off an upset. Two late strikes eventually secured the victory for Liverpool.
Bournemouth’s leveller came when Semenyo ran unchecked from the edge of his own area before firing from the edge of Liverpool’s box. Ibrahima Konate retreated instead of closing him down, affording the forward the time and space to create a scoring chance.
And the Frenchman was subsequently slammed by Liverpool icon Carragher on Sky Sports as the former defender exclaimed: “What is Konate doing? He’s been absolutely shocking tonight, Konate.”
Konate may find himself at risk of losing his spot in the starting line-up if Liverpool complete a £35million move for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi before the transfer window closes.
However, Carragher suggested that bringing in another centre-back might not automatically strengthen the Reds’ defence. He also expressed concern that Slot’s men could fall short in the title race if their existing weaknesses remain unaddressed.
“There is definitely a problem that Arne Slot has to solve,” Carragher explained. “People say they need a centre-back – a centre-back doesn’t fix that. He just takes Konate’s place.
“It’s about the make-up of the team with two attacking full-backs and a No. 10 who is more interested in getting on the ball than defending like [Dominik] Szoboszlai was last season. If Liverpool continue like that, I don’t think they will win the league.”
Liverpool might have to pay more than they would prefer to land Marc Guehi, as Crystal Palace are reportedly holding out for a fee beyond what the Reds are ready to offer.
Yet, Slot’s side could decide to step back from the chase, with the Dutch coach already pointing out that Ryan Gravenberch’s return from suspension will provide Liverpool with the defensive balance they require.
“I do talk about a player who was not available last week and not this week,” Slot said. “That’s Ryan Gravenberch. Last season, he was very, very important in these moments.”
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