The Liverpool transfer debate is showing no signs of slowing down.
While the ongoing pursuit of Newcastle striker Alexander Isak continues to dominate headlines, the glaring shortage of centre-back options remains a pressing concern for many Reds supporters.
That weakness was highlighted again on Sunday, as Liverpool’s defence twice allowed Crystal Palace back into the game during their Community Shield clash at Wembley.
The Reds eventually fell to the FA Cup holders on penalties, with captain Virgil van Dijk enduring a rare off-day. The Dutchman was at fault for both Palace goals and appeared to still be feeling the effects of the illness that sidelined him from the midweek double-header against Athletic Club.
Palace’s triumph came amid significant transfer speculation surrounding their captain, Marc Guéhi. The England international has entered the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park and is attracting interest from several Premier League clubs, with Liverpool believed to be among the frontrunners.
Speaking after the game, Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish admitted the club may have little choice but to cash in on Guéhi this summer to avoid losing him for free next year.
“We’d have to do that, of course.
For players of that calibre to leave on a free, it’s a problem for us unfortunately. [Last summer] Joachim [Andersen] went [to Fulham] and we couldn’t afford to lose both. We then had another bid in January but that was a different situation. We’ll just have to see what happens. But, you know, it needs a new contract or a conclusion of some kind.”
Guéhi made way in the 90th minute at Wembley, replaced by penalty hero Justin Devenny who emphatically converted his spot-kick to win the shootout for the London club.
With the centre-back market notoriously difficult to navigate, Parish’s candid comments will be welcomed by Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes and his recruitment team.
The question now is whether the Reds will meet Palace’s valuation to address a weakness that was once again exposed under the Wembley arch.
