Liverpool may soon add fresh competition to their backline, with manager Arne Slot reportedly targeting reinforcements for Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate.
The push comes after the Reds’ narrow Community Shield defeat to Crystal Palace — a 2-2 draw decided 3-2 on penalties — where Van Dijk’s performance drew criticism for his role in both goals conceded. With Jarell Quansah’s move to Bayer Leverkusen leaving a gap in defence, Slot has turned his attention to Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, whose £30–35 million price tag reflects his growing reputation as his contract nears its end.
While Guehi would not be expected to immediately displace Van Dijk or Konate, his arrival could influence the latter’s future. Reports suggest Real Madrid are considering a £20 million bid for the French defender, who is currently in a contract stand-off with Liverpool.
Following the Wembley loss, Konate posted a reflective message on Instagram: “Disappointed of course, now it all depends on how we react” — a sentiment that drew supportive emojis from teammate Cody Gakpo.
Liverpool’s swift move for Guehi could be a decisive one, especially as Crystal Palace face the risk of losing their skipper for free next year. And while Real Madrid’s interest in Konate remains, Slot appears determined to strengthen his central defensive depth before the summer window closes.
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