Arne Slot Drops Hint Over Liverpool’s Next Signing

Liverpool’s Defensive Puzzle after Leoni Injury: Arne Slot Stays Focused on Long-Term Vision

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has delivered a calm yet decisive message in the wake of Giovanni Leoni’s season-ending ACL injury. The setback, suffered in the midweek Carabao Cup victory over Southampton, had fuelled speculation that the Premier League champions could revisit their pursuit of Marc Guehi in the January window.

Slot’s Measured Approach to Squad Size

Slot was quick to quash any suggestion that Liverpool will rush into the market this winter. The club came close to signing Guehi, the Crystal Palace captain, for £35 million on deadline day but the Eagles were reluctant to sell without a replacement. With the England international’s contract due to expire next summer, the Reds remain poised to act if he becomes available on a free transfer, rather than pursuing an early deal.

Asked about the impact of Leoni’s absence on future recruitment plans, Slot replied:

“That all depends on whether we get more injuries, yes or no, and if there’s a chance in the market – all the answers I always give.”

Photo: IMAGO

His response reflected a wider principle that has shaped his successful tenure at Anfield. Since taking over in 2024 and guiding Liverpool to a historic Premier League title in his debut season, Slot has prioritised balance and cohesion over sheer numbers.

Balancing Quality and Opportunity

Slot’s preference for a leaner squad stems from his belief in maintaining clarity and motivation among his players.

“I would not prefer to go to 24 or 25 players… I believe that every player needs to have perspective of development or playing time. If I have to disappoint four or five players, I believe that is not the right energy that you want to have in the building.”

This philosophy explains why Liverpool have typically carried a first-team group of around 20 to 21 players, compared to the 24 or 26 seen at some of their closest rivals. The Dutchman argues that such an approach not only fosters a stronger sense of unity but also allows the club to invest more in individual talents.

“That is the way we do it and it is also why we can maybe spend a bit more on one player instead of bringing three in, and that is maybe the difference between the clubs.”

Versatility as a Defensive Safety Net

Rather than stockpile replacements, Liverpool’s strategy under Slot has been to prioritise players capable of excelling in multiple roles. New arrivals such as Florian Wirtz, who can operate on the left, as a number 10 or as a central midfielder, exemplify this approach. Dominik Szoboszlai offers similar flexibility.

“On the other hand, that means if you get one injury, you don’t have two replacements anymore… but that’s also why we try to bring in versatile players like Florian Wirtz… Dominik Szoboszlai can play every position, I think.”

Slot’s emphasis on adaptable footballers reduces the urgency to seek cover in every position, even in the aftermath of an injury as serious as Leoni’s.

Liverpool’s Next Steps on Marc Guehi

The question of Marc Guehi’s future will undoubtedly resurface in the coming months. With his Palace contract running down, the England international remains an attractive prospect for Liverpool, particularly as Slot looks to refresh his defensive options ahead of next season.

For now, Slot is determined to resist short-term fixes. His focus remains on guiding the champions through a demanding schedule while preserving the squad harmony that proved decisive in last season’s title triumph.

As January approaches, all eyes will be on whether Guehi’s situation at Selhurst Park changes. For Liverpool, the decision to act will depend on the market, the injury situation and the continued pursuit of sustainable success.