Over the past few transfer windows, it seems that countless players have been linked with a potential move to Liverpool.
Following their fifth-place finish last season, it became obvious that significant changes were needed at Anfield. Even after winning the Premier League title, concerns had begun to emerge about certain members of the squad, with some players getting older and struggling to maintain their previous performance levels.
As a result, Liverpool have spent well over £600 million in the transfer market over the past couple of years. Despite that substantial investment, some supporters still believe the squad needs further improvements.
Although several players linked with the Reds could have strengthened the team, there is one signing they failed to complete that might ultimately have worked in their favour.
Liverpool’s Missed Opportunity to Sign Marc Guehi
One of Liverpool’s biggest transfer targets last season was Marc Guehi, who was preparing to leave Crystal Palace with his contract approaching its final year.
The Reds appeared to have secured an agreement to sign the England international towards the end of the summer transfer window. However, Crystal Palace eventually withdrew from the deal after failing to find a suitable replacement for their captain.
Liverpool were consequently left with fewer defensive options than they had hoped for and even explored the possibility of signing Guehi again during the January transfer window.
Manchester City eventually secured his services, and the defender initially looked like an excellent addition to their squad.
However, his recent performances have attracted criticism, with the 26-year-old making several costly mistakes. His display during Manchester City’s 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa was another example of his struggles.
Looking back, Liverpool’s failure to sign Guehi might not have been as disappointing as it initially appeared. Instead, the club brought in Jeremy Jacquet, who has emerged as an alternative option at centre-back.
Given Jacquet’s encouraging performances and development, Liverpool may have avoided a significant transfer mistake by pursuing a different defensive solution.
Virgil van Dijk’s Successor Could Already Be at Liverpool
At present, Virgil van Dijk remains Liverpool’s leading centre-back.
Despite reaching the age of 35, the Dutchman continues to demonstrate his quality and experience. Although he has made occasional mistakes that have contributed to goals conceded, his overall performances have continued to offer plenty of positives.
Liverpool’s biggest concern, however, is his contract situation, with his current deal scheduled to expire at the end of the season.
Whether the club will offer him a new contract remains uncertain, leaving questions about their long-term defensive plans.
Eventually, when Van Dijk leaves Anfield, Liverpool will need someone capable of taking responsibility at the heart of their defence.
If Jacquet continues developing at his current rate, he could emerge as a serious candidate to fill that role and become one of the club’s most important defensive players.
Of course, there is still a significant portion of the season remaining, meaning performances and circumstances could change considerably.
Nevertheless, Liverpool’s decision to pursue Jacquet rather than secure Guehi’s signature could prove to be a smart move, particularly if the young defender continues to progress and establish himself as a key figure at Anfield.
