- Liverpool Transfer Situation Background
- Urgent Needs in Liverpool's Backline
- Profile and Potential of Marc Guehi
- Alternative Center Back to Replace Guehi
- Three interesting alternatives in the Liverpool defender transfer market
- Conclusion and Future Predictions
Background on Liverpool's Transfer Situation and Needs at the Backline
This transfer season is a major concern for Liverpool, especially in defense. After releasing one of their mainstay defenders, Jarell QuansahThe Reds management has increased focus on the urgent need in the center-back sector, to Bayer Leverkusen with a transfer value of Rp 774 billion. This decision sparked speculation that Liverpool are looking for a short and long term strategy to strengthen their back line before next season's competition rolls around.
In the midst of fierce competition in the Premier League and European competitions, squad depth is a crucial factor. Last season, Liverpool faced major challenges from injuries, especially in the center-back position. Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate did perform solidly when fit, but the absence of competent backup players often made their back line vulnerable to conceding. The search for a new center-back is therefore a top priority, both through direct transfers and free options that could potentially reduce the cost burden during the transfer window.
Urgent Needs in Liverpool's Backline
Last season showed that Liverpool's squad depth in the center-back position still needs to be improved. When Van Dijk and Konate were out with injuries, the center-back position had to be filled by Joe Gomez and loan players who were not necessarily consistent. In addition, the performance of reserve players like Joel Matip also shows a lack of experience and endurance in high-level competition.
The last few matches have shown that Liverpool's back line is quite vulnerable, especially in terms of ball possession and speed in anticipating the opponent's attack. For this reason, Liverpool management is targeting players who are not only able to appear as substitutes, but are also able to make a significant contribution in the long run. Strengthening in this sector is very important for Liverpool to remain competitive in the Premier League and European competitions, especially in facing teams with fast and tactical attacks.
Profile and Potential of Marc Guehi, the Ultimate Center Back Candidate
One of the names most often linked with a transfer to Liverpool is Marc GuehiThe captain of Crystal Palace has impressed over the past few seasons in the Premier League. The Englishman is known for his strong defense, accurate ball distribution, and good reading of the game. With his contract expiring in less than 12 months, Guehi is an attractive option, especially if Crystal Palace decide not to extend his contract.
Interestingly, Guehi has quite stable performance data in his last five Premier League matches. Here is Guehi's latest performance data that shows his consistency:
| Match | Interceptions | Clearances | Tackles | Passing Success (%) | Goal | Assist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | 3 | 5 | 2 | 88% | 0 | 0 |
| Game 2 | 4 | 6 | 1 | 90% | 0 | 1 |
| Game 3 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 85% | 0 | 0 |
| Game 4 | 3 | 7 | 2 | 87% | 1 | 0 |
| Game 5 | 5 | 8 | 2 | 89% | 0 | 1 |
With the above data, Guehi shows consistent performance and is able to perform well in various match situations, making him a center-back candidate who is very worth considering Liverpool as a long-term solution.
Alternative Center Backs that Could Be Liverpool's Solution
Apart from Marc Guehi, Liverpool are also targeting several other players who are considered capable of filling the void in their defense. Here are three alternative names that are starting to be taken into account in the transfer market this summer:
1. Castello Lukeba
One player who has caught Liverpool's attention again is Castello LukebaLukeba is a 22-year-old young defender who currently plays for RB Leipzig. Lukeba was previously a target when he was still playing for Lyon, and his performances in the Bundesliga have further shown that he has great potential as a future defender.
Lukeba is known for his good ball distribution skills and speed in reading the game, which fits well with the English club's playing philosophy. Although his contract is still valid until 2029 and has a release clause of IDR 1.7 Trillion, there is a possibility that Liverpool and other clubs can get the services of this player at a more competitive price, given the opportunity for unwritten negotiations that pave the way for cheaper transfers.
2. Murillo
Another option comes from Murillo, a Brazilian defender who currently plays at Nottingham Forest. With Forest, Murillo impressed with 242 clearances and 45 blocks over the course of last season, and made an important contribution in helping the Tricky Trees keep 11 clean sheets in 13 matches.
Murillo himself stated that he wanted to show his best performance at Forest before stepping up to the next big club. In fact, he mentioned that Liverpool is one of the dream destinations, which opens up great opportunities for them to make offers in the near future. His ability to defend and experience in the Premier League competition makes him an attractive option for the Reds.
3. Jorrel Hato
The latest name to come to light is Jorrel HatoHato is a talented young player from the Ajax academy who excels in positional versatility. Hato can play as a center-back or left-back, which is a plus in the team's rotation scheme.
Liverpool's curiosity about Hato grew stronger after he was seen at Anfield in January. Although at that time his presence was at the invitation of Ryan Gravenberch and there was no official contact, Hato's presence at the stadium made many believe that his future at a big European club was very bright. Hato himself has 111 appearances with Ajax and is also part of the Dutch national team, which shows his potential as a future player.
Liverpool's Transfer Future Conclusion and Prediction
In the face of a challenging situation this summer, Liverpool will have to be smart to choose both short-term and long-term solutions to strengthen their backline. Although Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi is the main option, they are still waiting for the opportunity to get the player on a free next season, given that his contract is only one year away.
Meanwhile, other alternatives such as Castello Lukeba, Murillo, and Jorrel Hato offer various advantages, ranging from international experience, impressive performance in English and European competitions, to great potential as future players. Liverpool's management decisions in this transfer market will greatly determine their success in maintaining a competitive level in various competitions next season.
With the right strategy, Liverpool will not only be able to overcome the deficiencies at the back, but also build a more solid and adaptable squad. Watching the ball online and the live score of the match will be something that fans in Indonesia look forward to, watching the action of their chosen players who will strengthen the Reds in the coming season.