Liverpool make Guehi bid – Is the Crystal Palace star van Dijk’s successor?
Liverpool continue to be linked with Marc Guehi in the summer transfer window.
The Crystal Palace centre-back has established himself as one of the best defenders in the country and helped the Eagles win the FA Cup last season.
Liverpool have long been linked with Guehi, with the defender now in the last year of his contract.
If the transfer were to go through, the England international would be expected to partner Virgil van Dijk this season.
However, Arne Slot may view Guehi as the Dutchman’s eventual successor.
Guehi has many similar stats to van Dijk
One of the biggest problems facing Slot at Liverpool in the coming years will be replacing van Dijk.
The captain is now 34 years old and only has two years left on his deal.
Soon or later, it is inevitable that he will depart Anfield, and Slot will need a replacement.
Recent reports have indicated that Liverpool have had two bids rebuffed for Guehi via Santi Aouna on X (5 August), with the Reds wanting defensive reinforcements.
However, the 25-year-old has shown signs that he could be van Dijk’s eventual successor.
According to Fbref (5 August), the two defenders have very similar stats, with Guehi even beating the Dutchman in some defensive and attacking areas.
| Stats per 90 mins in the 2024/25 campaign | Marc Guehi | Virgil van Dijk |
| Tackles | 1.79 | 0.95 |
| Interceptions | 0.82 | 1.36 |
| Block | 1.62 | 0.78 |
| Clearances | 4.80 | 4.55 |
| Aerial duels won | 2.00 | 2.85 |
| Non-penalty goals | 0.09 | 0.09 |
| Assists | 0.06 | 0.02 |
| Shot-creating actions | 1.19 | 1.29 |
| Passing accuracy | 83.5% | 91.7% |
While the Englishman’s stats are likely inflated due to Palace’s increased defensive work compared to Liverpool, it is a positive sign.
With Slot and van Dijk’s guidance likely to improve Guehi’s ability further if he were to join, there is every chance that the 25-year-old could one day fill his boots.
Liverpool should prioritise Guehi
Liverpool have been targeting multiple players going into the final weeks of the transfer window.
Alexander Isak has been heavily linked to Anfield after impressing at Newcastle United.
However, Guehi should be Slot’s priority going into the Premier League season.
As shown above, the centre-back could become a vital player in the future, and his addition is far more important than an additional attacker.
Hopefully, Liverpool will put in another bid for Guehi soon and get the transfer over the line.
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