Liverpool stick to long-term plan for English-Ivorian defender Marc Guehi despite Leoni injury setback

Liverpool’s recruitment plans remain on course despite losing Giovanni Leoni to a season-ending injury, with The Times’ Paul Joyce reporting the club will not accelerate their pursuit of Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi in January.

The Anfield hierarchy had been expected to reassess their defensive options after Leoni’s setback but, for now, their long-term strategy is unchanged.

Guehi, who was born in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, before moving to England as a child, has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders and now represents England at international level.

His composure and leadership at Selhurst Park have made him a coveted figure across Europe and a cornerstone of Palace’s progress under Oliver Glasner.

Liverpool tried to sign the 25-year-old on deadline day in the summer but saw their bid rejected. Instead, they have mapped out a move to secure him on a free transfer when his contract expires next year.

That approach carries obvious risks, as Manchester City, Real Madrid and other top clubs are already monitoring his situation and could offer more lucrative terms than the Merseysiders.

Despite the competition, Liverpool believe the project under Arne Slot and the prospect of anchoring a refreshed defence at Anfield remain attractive enough to win Guehi’s signature.

For now, club sources insist there are “no plans” to break their strategy mid-season, though that stance could shift if injuries mount further.

Palace, meanwhile, have no intention of parting with their captain in January as they look to cement a top-half finish.

Guehi himself has so far kept quiet on his future but is widely expected to command one of the Premier League’s most significant defensive contracts when he becomes available.