Jurgen Klopp is reportedly interested in bringing in a defender and midfield additions this summer, with one England international, Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, linked with a move to Anfield. Liverpool have been linked with a number of centre-backs in recent weeks, including Sporting’s Goncalo Inacio, Brighton‘s on-loan Levi Colwill, Benfica’s Antonio Silva, plus Josko Gvardiol and Jarrad Branthwaite. Klopp was asked directly about the possibility of signing a new centre-back in his pre-Aston Villa press conference last week and reliable journalist Paul Joyce has since followed up by saying the manager is “interested in defensive signings.” It is also claimed that Klopp wants defensive signings in addition to Alexis Mac Allister and Mason Mount in midfield.
Guehi, 22, joined Palace two years ago and has been highly impressive at the London side, earning international recognition with England and making his debut for Gareth Southgate’s side last year. He was tipped by many to go to the World Cup but was subsequently overlooked for the likes of Harry Maguire. Guehi is said to be wanted by Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham and Man United, with a potential £50 million price tag. One thing that would certainly appeal is Guehi’s reliability, completing 36 Premier League games this season – in stark contrast to Liverpool’s injury-hit Joel Matip and Ibrahima Konate.
Responding to the question on a potential defender arriving this summer, Klopp said: “We look in all departments — apart from goalkeeper, in the moment.” The manager has insisted that recent improved form won’t change his summer plans. “If there is a good one out there, I would not deny it,” he added. “That’s all. How I said, we have to, and we do, look in all areas of the pitch. Definitely.” It is believed that Klopp is very keen to get new signings in early this summer, well ahead of pre-season, and with reports out of Argentina suggesting a move for Mac Allister is complete, it appears that he is bearing fruit.
Liverpool are reportedly seeking Premier League-proven players this summer, which Guehi would fit into, while also being young enough to establish himself as a potential successor to Virgil van Dijk eventually. With the departures of Roberto Firmino, James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain freeing up almost £500,000 per week in wages, there is belief that plenty of new arrivals is possible this summer.