Arne Slot has unlocked way to save FSG millions on Marc Guehi deal
Luca Stephenson is continuing to impress for Liverpool this pre-season.
Stephenson, 21, started in the Reds’ 4-2 defeat to AC Milan on Saturday, with the youngster filling in at right-back in a makeshift back four.
Arne Slot will be using pre-season to assess his newly bolstered squad ahead of their Premier League title defence, which begins at home to Bournemouth on August 15.
Liverpool have been comfortably the biggest spenders this transfer window, shelling out close to £300million thus far, with further spending still expected.
However, with Stephenson’s emergence as a top talent this summer, he could end up saving Fenway Sports Group even more money.
Stephenson could hold the fort while Reds wait for Guehi
The Reds are interested in Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi.
With Jarell Quansah’s departure to Bayer Leverkusen, Liverpool have left themselves short at centre-back, with just Virgil Van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez as the recognised centre-backs.
This issue was further emphasised with the news that Joe Gomez was sent home due to a minor achilles injury, leading to speculation about the arrival of another centre-back.
| Luca Stephenson stats vs Milan | Total |
| Minutes | 45 |
| Tackle success rate | 100% (1/1) |
| Ground duels won | 100% (1/1) |
| Aerial duels won | 50% (1/2) |
Guehi would cost around £45m to bring to Anfield, but he is entering the final year of his Crystal Palace contract.
Stephenson provides a temporary solution in the short term, which could then allow the Reds to sign Guehi on a free transfer next season.
Liverpool funds should be used on Alexander Isak
Stephenson’s emergence means Liverpool‘s transfer budget can be allocated to other areas, with one name standing out in particular.
Alexander Isak has asked to leave Newcastle United this summer and has made Anfield his preferred destination.
With a move for Guehi put on hold, the Reds can now focus fully on the Swedish superstar, which could prove to be a title-deciding move.
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